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Varicose veins are huge and unsightly veins that often develop in the legs. For most individuals, these discolored veins are primarily an aesthetic issue. However, for some people, varicose veins could be a source of discomfort and pain. Besides, varicose veins could indicate an underlying vein condition yet to be diagnosed. Luckily, several vein treatment Memphis alternatives are available for anybody who is sick of living with uncomfortable varicose veins or simply wants to eliminate them for cosmetic reasons. Continue reading to gain insight into some of the commonly-used treatments.
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
RFA is a minimally intrusive technique utilized to address varicose veins. During this procedure, your doctor will insert a thin, flexible catheter into the damaged vein through a tiny incision. This catheter emits radiofrequency energy that will heat up and damage the vein wall, making it collapse, and eventually become re-absorbed by the body.
Often, vein doctors perform this procedure under local anesthesia. Unlike more invasive surgery, this treatment bears a reduced risk of complications. Moreover, this procedure is more targeted and precise.
- Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is another popular minimally-invasive treatment for varicose and spider veins. With this procedure, your doctor injects a solution, known as a sclerosant, directly into the damaged vein. This solution irritates the vein’s lining, making it swell and stick together, eventually collapsing and becoming re-absorbed by the body.
Sclerotherapy is an outpatient procedure and often takes under an hour, but the treatment period may vary based on the size and number of veins being treated. While most patients report experiencing mild discomfort during the injection, the treatment is typically well-tolerated.
- Compression Therapy
Compression therapy is a non-intrusive therapy used to manage venous insufficiency. This procedure is often suggested first before more invasive solutions are considered. The procedure aims to enhance blood circulation to manage symptoms of venous insufficiency like pain, skin changes, and swelling. In most cases, your vein doctor will suggest this procedure in combination with other treatments like medication and exercise.
- Litigation and Stripping
Litigation and stripping is a surgical procedure used to address varicose veins. The treatment entails tying off the vein at the bottom and top of the affected region and then cutting it through a tiny incision. Since it is surgery, this procedure must be performed under general anesthesia.
After surgery, doctors advise patients to rest for several days, wear compression bandages and stockings, and avoid strenuous activities for several weeks. However, since the invention of more minimally invasive and non-invasive solutions, this treatment is less popular today.
- Endoscopic Vein Surgery
Endoscopic vein surgery is another common minimally invasive procedure for treating varicose veins. Your provider will make a tiny cut on your skin, through which they will insert a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached to its end, known as an endoscope.
The endoscope allows your doctor to see the inside of the damaged vein and identify specific regions that need treatment. After identifying the trouble areas, your doctor will make additional tiny cuts and insert specialized surgical equipment to eliminate the damaged vein.
With time, vein valves weaken gradually, making varicose veins develop or worsen. You cannot do much about your family history, gender, or age. However, lifestyle adjustments like staying well-hydrated, following a healthy diet, and regular exercises can help avoid varicose veins. Unfortunately, despite your best efforts, varicose veins will still develop sometimes. Do not accept to live with the discomfort of varicose veins or let them affect your confidence. Consult your vein specialist about more aggressive treatment options, such as sclerotherapy, endoscopic vein surgery, radiofrequency ablation, and more.
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