Varicose veins are enlarged veins that sit near the skin’s surface and often appear to be bulging. Aside from being highly visible, varicose veins are usually benign but can cause physical discomfort in some individuals. There are treatments for minimizing the appearance of varicose veins and alleviating symptoms associated with them. The experienced providers at the Pennsylvania Vascular Institute, serving King of Prussia, Philadelphia, Lehigh Valley, Pocono, and Jim Thorpe, PA, treat varicose veins.
How Varicose Veins Develop
Varicose veins develop as a result of blood gathering in the veins. This can occur when the valves inside a vein become damaged or weak and inhibit blood flow. As blood pools up in the affected area, the vein becomes enlarged and can appear to be bulging. Varicose veins can develop in different areas of the body, but are most common in the legs because those veins experience increased pressure from frequent standing, walking, and other activities.
Varicose Vein Treatments
Varicose veins do not cause any problems for many people with them, but others might experience some mild swelling, discomfort pain, or cramping. The presence of varicose veins and their symptoms can sometimes be an indication of a condition called Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), which is associated with circulatory problems in the legs. Whether you want to reduce the appearance of varicose veins or are experiencing symptoms, there are treatments that can help.
We have several effective methods for treating varicose veins at our offices in King of Prussia, Philadelphia, Lehigh Valley, Pocono, and Jim Thorpe, PA. Treatment can minimize the appearance of varicose veins, reduce discomfort and other symptoms, and improve blood circulation.
Examples of treatments that help promote better circulation and reduce swelling, discomfort, and other symptoms, include wearing compression stockings, stretching, exercising, and raising the legs periodically when sitting or laying down for extended periods. Various procedures are also available for closing off or removing varicose veins, including:
- Sclerotherapy — Large varicose veins are caused to collapse and shrink by injecting a special solution into them. Treated veins eventually disappear as they are reabsorbed by the body.
- Microphlebectomy — A special took is used to make a tiny micro incision in the skin in order to remove a large varicose vein. Since the incision is so small, it barely leaves a scar.
- Endogenous Ablation — A catheter is inserted into a varicose vein and heated up, causing the vein to close so blood can no longer pass through it. The body will eventually reabsorb the closed vein.
- Chemical Adhesive — A catheter is inserted directly into a varicose vein, much like endogenous ablation. However, a special chemical adhesive is used instead of heat to close the vein and shrink it.
Several options are available for treating varicose veins. Whether you want to minimize the appearance of varicose veins or experience relief from symptoms, we can help. Schedule an appointment with one of our skilled physicians to discuss options for treating your varicose veins by calling Pennsylvania Vascular Institute in King of Prussia, Philadelphia, Lehigh Valley, Pocono, and Jim Thorpe, PA, at (800) 296-9294.