The Best Treatments for Varicose Veins

There are also a number of procedures out there to tackle problem veins. Some are older and far less common now in the private sector – which typically is far quicker to utilise the latest technologies and procedures.

With each clinic pushing its specific procedures and the NHS still offering Vein Stripping, it can be confusing for patients. So we decided to bring together a general lowdown on what varicose vein treatments are out there and dispel a few of the myths out there about varicose veins while we’re at it.

Varicose Veins – The Risks

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that about 25% of adults around the world have some type of venous disorder in the legs.

Varicose veins pose a particular problem because they’re often not just a cosmetic issue; they can pose a considerable health risk. Problems associated with varicose veins include

Sores
Skin ulcers
Extensive bleeding with injuries
Superficial thrombophlebitis and deep vein thrombosis.

There are a number of risk factors associated with varicose veins, including being a woman; overweight and genetics. They do not cause varicose veins alone. Varicose veins develop from damaged veins.

These risk factors accelerate the worsening of varicose veins. It is important to note that pregnancy in itself can cause varicose veins in the vaginal area.

Obviously, as with any procedure, there are risks and potential complications when treating them but a surgeon will be able to explain why you may be better off treating the varicose vein than simply leaving it.

The body has a remarkable ability to adapt and cope.

Removing/destroying the varicose vein won’t typically pose a problem for the body.

Do so in the safe hands of an experienced Vascular surgeon and you will have very little to worry about.

Varicose Vein Treatments

The 4 most common varicose vein treatments are:

EVLA (Endovenous Laser Ablation) – lasers are directed along the vein to shut it down
Sclerotherapy – foam or liquid injection to shut down the varicose vein
Phlebectomy – a specific kind of surgical excision/removal
Vein Stripping – vein is pulled out & not used by many private clinics

The first three treatments are considered to be advancements on the older vein stripping method, with considerably less discomfort and downtime for patients.

*Varicose veins don’t just appear in the legs; they can appear in the pelvic and vaginal area for women and the scrotum area for men – causing considerable discomfort. Visible veins in different parts of the body can be treated with Sclerotherapy and CoolGlide (a laser treatment). All vein treatments require considerable precision and demand experience.*

The Patient Is the Priority

Naturally, it will always depend on the individual when assessing what is the best procedure. Varicose vein consultations involve a scan at a private clinic, where a detailed assessment of the area is taken and your suitability is determined. It is very important that lots of questions are asked and information is exchanged at a consultation

If you want to read more, the experts at Consulting Room really know what they're talking about and have put together some varicose veins, EVLA and Sclerotherapy FAQs just for you.

If you have more questions, you can use the varicose veins, EVLA and Sclerotherapy questions feature to talk to our panel of trained medical experts.

If you're keen to get started with any of these treatments right away then you're in luck - those clever folks also have a list of trusted, accredited varicose veins, EVLA and Sclerotherapy clinics in your area.