Varicose veins occur when the valves in the veins become weak, causing blood to pool in the lower limbs. Varicose veins are generally thick, twisted and swollen, and they appear just below the surface of the skin. Many people feel self-conscious about their varicose veins, and they can also be uncomfortable. Sluggish blood flow in these veins can lead to clots, which in turn can lead to a condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT can be fatal.
Varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic problem. With the possibility of a condition like DVT, it's important to seek treatment before varicose veins become serious.
The symptoms of deep vein thrombosis include:
DVT is a potentially lethal condition, and many people who experience DVT have no idea they're afflicted until they experience a medical emergency. Knowing how to treat this condition is important. Here's what you need to know.
There are several kinds of treatment for varicose veins. Your physician can help you choose the right therapy based on the location of your veins, the severity of the problem and other factors. At one time, a surgical procedure called vein stripping was the only available option. Today, there are alternatives. Common types of varicose vein treatment include:
Both of these procedures are minimally invasive and have a faster recovery time compared to traditional surgical treatment. Your physician can help you decide which type of treatment is best for you.
Massage therapy is not a cure for varicose veins and especially not for DVT. If you're experiencing pain or other physical symptoms because of your varicose veins, you can schedule an ultrasound appointment with a vein doctor to see if massage therapy is safe for you. The last thing you want is to believe you just have varicose veins when you really have DVT, see a massage therapist, and get a blood clot dislodged from the afflicted vein during the massage. Don't forego treatment simply because the massage therapist provides temporary relief.
Minimally invasive procedures like laser ablation can help you avoid the pain and discomfort that comes from varicose veins. These procedures can help prevent a serious condition like DVT. Moreover, these modern, minimally invasive procedures have a shorter recovery time. With a simple outpatient procedure, you can be well on the way to recovery.
Some varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic problem. Without treatment, your varicose veins could potentially lead deep vein thrombosis.
Help is available. If you've recently developed twisted, swollen veins in your legs, meet Dr. Ives in Fairbanks, AK.
Contact Dr. Ives for an appointment. View our varicose vein treatment options to help you avoid the potential problems that can come from varicose veins.
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