Dr. Bruce R. Hoyle, M.D.
Specialist in the Treatment of Varicose Veins
What
are Varicose Veins and How Can They Be Treated?
Arteries bring blood from the heart to the extremities, veins, which have one-way valves, channel blood back to the heart. If the valves don't function well, blood doesn't flow efficiently. The veins become enlarged because they are congested with blood. These enlarged veins are commonly called spider veins or varicose veins. Spider veins are small red, blue or purple veins on the surface of the skin. Varicose veins are larger distended veins that are located somewhat deeper than spider veins.
Pain in the legs is frequently related to abnormal leg veins. Symptoms,
often made worse by prolonged standing, include feelings of fatigue,
heaviness, aching, burning, throbbing, itching, cramping, and restLESness of
the legs. Leg swelling can occur. Severe varicose veins can compromise the
nutrition of the skin and lead to eczema, inflammation or even ulceration of
the lower leg.
Vein disorders are not always visible; diagnostic techniques are important tools in determining the cause and severity of the problem. In addition to a physical examination, non-invasive ultrasound is often used.
When and How Are Veins Treated?
The most commonly asked questions are: Do veins require treatment and What treatment is best? Veins that are cosmetically unappealing or cause pain or other symptoms are prime candidates for treatment. There are two general treatment options: conservative measures, such as compression stockings, and "corrective" methods such as sclerotherapy, surgery and light source/laser treatment. In some cases, a combination of treatment methods works best.
Sclerotherapy can be used to treat both varicose and spider veins. A tiny needle is used to inject the veins with a medication that irritates the lining of the vein. In response, the veins collapse and are reabsorbed. The surface veins are no longer visible. Sclerotherapy relieves symptoms due to varicose and spider veins in most patients. With this procedure, veins can be dealt with at an early stage, helping to prevent further complications.
You may need anywhere from one to several sclerotherapy sessions for any vein region. Depending on the type and number of veins being treated you may have one to many injections per session. Generally, normal activities can be resumed after sclerotherapy. Medically prescribed support hose and/or bandages may need to be worn for several days to several weeks to assist in resolution of the veins. The procedure, performed in the doctor's office, usually causes only minimal discomfort. Bruising and pigmentation may occur after sclerotherapy. Bruising typically disappears within 1-2 weeks. Although pigmentation almost always fades, it can last for several months. Scarring and other complications are rare. Sclerotherapy for the treatment of varicose veins is continued on the next page ...