Varicose veins cause significant discomfort and pain. Swollen and twisted varicose veins typically occur in the legs and develop when veins become faulty. They allow blood to pool and cause increased pressure inside vein walls. Typical symptoms include aching, throbbing, and heaviness.
Premier Med Group, the leading provider of pain management in New Jersey, provides some important information about varicose veins treatment.
Understanding Varicose Veins
About 20% of adults will get varicose veins, according to the National Library of Medicine. Varicose veins occur because of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Veins have one-way valves, and CVI causes them to malfunction. That causes blood to flow backward, primarily because of the force of gravity.
Affected veins, especially in the legs, usually turn blue or purple. That leads to cosmetic concerns, but the medical problems can be much more serious. Typical symptoms of varicose veins include:
- Pain and heaviness in the legs
- Cramping or throbbing
- Itching around the affected area
Without proper medical attention and treatment, varicose veins can lead to venous ulcers and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Venous ulcers are sores that develop on the skin in areas affected by varicose veins. DVT is a blood clot that will affect 1 in 20 people, according to WebMD, and can lead to life-threatening emergencies.
What Is the Treatment for Varicose Veins?
There are several treatment options for addressing varicose veins, from conservative management to advanced medical procedures.
Sclerotherapy for Varicose Veins
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive varicose veins treatment therapy that shows results in about six weeks for smaller veins, according to Mayo Clinic. It involves injecting a sclerosant solution into the affected vein. This solution penetrates the affected vein walls and causes the vein to close. In a gradual process, the body absorbs the treated vein as blood naturally redirects through healthier veins.
Sclerotherapy is effective for smaller varicose veins and spider veins and involves minimal recovery time. The outpatient procedure does not usually disrupt normal activities.
Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)
Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) is another minimally invasive vein therapy option. A medical professional inserts a laser fiber into an affected vein. Ultrasound technology guides the fiber to the precise area where needed.
The laser heats damaged vein walls, collapsing and closing the vein. In a similar process in sclerotherapy, EVLT allows the body to reroute blood through healthier veins naturally.
EVLT laser vein treatment is effective for larger varicose veins, has a short recovery period, and involves minimal discomfort.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is similar to EVLT. However, instead of laser energy, it uses carefully controlled radiofrequency energy to heat and close damaged varicose veins. RFA also uses ultrasound technology to guide the application. It can treat larger varicose veins that might not respond appropriately to sclerotherapy.
RFA involves short recovery times and long-lasting relief from the symptoms of varicose veins.
Vein Removal Surgery
As a varicose veins treatment, vein stripping surgery is a minor surgical procedure that removes or ties off damaged veins. A surgeon makes small incisions at the affected area, then ties off and removes the damaged vein. The surgeon can use a stripping head to invert the vein and strip it away from its branches.
This surgery is usually an outpatient procedure but requires some physical limitations during recovery that can take a few weeks.
Benefits of Professional Varicose Veins Treatment
Seeking professional varicose veins treatment with an expert and experienced provider offers cosmetic improvements along with significant medical benefits, including:
- Alleviation of pain and discomfort
- Improved circulation
- Minimal recovery time
- Prevention of complications
- Enhanced quality of life
Incorporating Pain Management Into Varicose Vein Treatment
Pain management techniques are critical to achieving lasting relief from the symptoms of varicose veins.
Professional varicose veins treatment targets the underlying causes of damaged veins and poor circulation. Effective pain management supports recovery by easing symptoms.
Compression Stockings
As a non-surgical option, compression stocking can help many patients manage varicose vein symptoms. These stockings apply gradually increasing pressure down the legs. They improve circulation and reduce swelling and pain caused by varicose veins.
Compression stockings do not eliminate varicose veins but are a commonly used component of effective pain management.
Leg Elevation
Practicing regular leg elevation reduces pressure in the lower leg and damaged veins. Elevation also helps to ease swelling.
Regular Exercise
All leg movements boost circulation. Supporting vascular activity of all kinds reduces cramping, pain, and leg heaviness.
Hydration
Proper and adequate hydration is critical to strong blood flow and management of swelling and cramping.
Contact Premier Med Group for a Comprehensive Approach to Pain Management for Varicose Veins
Premier Med Group provides effective and minimally invasive pain management and varicose veins treatment. Our board-certified specialists provide patients with a full range of treatment options. We work carefully with every patient to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to their personal needs and conditions.
Call Premier Med Group at (908)-904-1900 today to schedule a consultation with the top vein specialists in New Jersey.
FAQs About Pain Management and Varicose Veins Treatment
Are There Any Risks Associated With Leaving Varicose Veins Untreated?
There are risks associated with leaving varicose veins untreated, as they can lead to more serious health issues. Varicose veins contribute to the development of venous ulcers and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). These conditions also cause pain and present medical risks.
Does Diet Play a Role in Managing Varicose Veins?
Diet plays a role in managing varicose veins, as healthy eating supports vein health and can reduce the risk of worsening varicose veins. Foods that promote healthy circulation, like those rich in antioxidants, fiber, and flavonoids, can provide a wide range of health benefits.
Maintaining a healthy weight also reduces pressure on veins and can minimize varicose vein discomfort.
Can Hormonal Changes Affect the Development of Varicose Veins?
Hormonal changes can affect the development of varicose veins, especially those related to pregnancy, menopause, and hormonal therapies. Estrogen and progesterone can weaken vein walls.
Pregnant women should take preventative steps to minimize the risk they will need varicose veins treatment related to hormonal changes and increased blood volume.
