Varicose veins aren’t just a cosmetic issue; they can be very uncomfortable and increase your risk for complications like open sores and blood clots. The good news is varicose veins can be treated with minimally invasive solutions that can improve the appearance of your legs, reduce symptoms, and prevent potentially serious complications. Here’s what you should know about varicose vein treatment in Schaumburg.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a standard treatment for varicose veins in the legs and it’s safer than ever. This procedure involves injecting a special chemical into the varicose vein to irritate the vein walls. The area is massaged and a compression garment is applied. The treatment causes the walls of the vein to stick together to prevent blood flow, improving circulation in the leg and reducing swelling. You may need more than one treatment and the varicose vein will naturally disappear after a few months.
Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)
Sclerotherapy can be the best option for small veins but laser treatments are recommended for larger varicose veins. Endovenous laser ablation or EVLT is a safe in-office procedure that involves inserting a laser fiber into the varicose vein. The laser will heat the vein from within to damage the walls and cause the vein to collapse, shrink, and disappear on its own. The procedure does not leave a scar and it’s virtually painless using local anesthesia.
Other Options for Varicose Veins
Laser treatment and sclerotherapy are currently the only options to permanently get rid of a varicose vein. There are other treatment options that can improve symptoms of varicose veins and reduce the risk of getting more, however. Regular exercise, elevating your legs, and avoiding standing or sitting for long periods of time can all improve leg circulation. Wearing compression stockings to apply pressure can help blood move back to the heart, reduce swelling in the legs, and reduce the risk of a blood clot. Compression stockings can’t shrink varicose veins, though.
If you are considering varicose vein treatment in Schaumburg, contact Dr. Bradley Ashpole M.D. today to schedule a consultation and discuss whether EVLT or sclerotherapy is the best option for you.