Find out how our vascular physician can easily get rid of those embarrassing varicose veins.
Do you notice twisted, bulging blue veins in your legs? If so, these are known as varicose veins. Not to be confused with spider veins, which look more like thin web-like veins, varicose veins are typically thicker and may resemble gnarled tree roots. The problem with these veins is that they can also cause pain and discomfort, and even increase your risk for blood clots. Here’s what you should know about how vascular doctors treat and manage varicose veins in our Morristown, Sparta, Teaneck, and Pompton Plains NJ office.
What causes varicose veins?
If varicose veins run in your family, then you’re definitely at an increased risk of developing this problem. Our vascular doctors are also more likely to see this problem in those who sit or stand for extended periods throughout the day. It’s also common to find varicose veins in older adults and pregnant women. Hormones, injuries to the legs, and exposure to sunlight can also play a role.
How are varicose veins treated?
There are several strategies that our physicians in Morristown, Sparta, Pompton Plains, and Teaneck NJ may take to treat your varicose veins, and this may depend on the symptoms you are experiencing, the severity of your damaged veins, and your overall health. In most minor cases, varicose veins may be treated through simple home care designed to promote better circulation and blood flow to the legs and feet (this will not get rid of the damaged vein, however). Some of these self-care tips include:
- Getting up and moving every 30 minutes (do not sit or stand for long periods)
- Get regular physical activity and exercise (adults should get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day)
- Keep legs elevated when sitting
- Avoid sitting in hot water for long periods
- Wear compression stockings to improve circulation and to prevent blood clots in the legs
If one of our doctors recommends wearing compression stockings, we will advise you as to which type and size to get, to ensure that you get the proper fit.
If you decide to go ahead and get rid of your varicose veins, the most common treatment option is sclerotherapy. This simple, minimally invasive procedure is used to treat both spider and varicose veins. During sclerotherapy, one of our vascular doctors will inject a solution directly into the veins, causing scarring. This scarring prevents blood from flowing through the damaged veins and redirects blood through healthier veins. It can take up to four months for varicose veins to go away after treatment, and most people will require 2-3 sessions to see results.
If you are dealing with unsightly or painful varicose veins and want to discuss your treatment options, Advanced Vascular Associates has offices in Morristown, Pompton Plains, Teaneck, and Sparta NJ. Call (973) 540-9700 for more information.