What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged and twisted veins, usually found in the legs. They can cause itching, pain, and discomfort, and are also not pleasing in appearance. Varicose veins are relatively common, affecting up to one-third of adults.

What Is the Treatment for Varicose Veins?

There are certain measures which can be used to ease the discomfort and pain and improve the appearance of the varicose veins. But, if they are severe enough, then laser treatment is one of the most popular, effective, cost-efficient and safe procedures to get relief from varicose veins.

Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins

Laser treatment for varicose veins is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat from a laser to seal off the affected veins. This effectively "shuts down" the vein so that blood can no longer flow through it. Instead, the blood now flows through the nearby healthy vessels. The treated varicose vein shrinks and forms scar tissue that eventually gets absorbed in the body tissue.

Laser treatment offers several benefits over other procedures for the treatment of varicose veins:

• Laser treatment is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day as your procedure.
• Minimally invasive: Laser treatment is a minimally invasive procedure, meaning it involves little to no cutting or incisions.
• Quick recovery: Because it is minimally invasive, laser treatment for varicose veins often results in a quick recovery. Patients may be able to return to their normal activities on the same day as their procedure.
• Effective: Laser treatment is an effective way to treat varicose veins and improve symptoms like pain and discomfort.

Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Call 18605002244

Laser treatment for varicose veins is generally safe and effective. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks involved. These include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Adjacent skin damage
• Altered sensation like numbness
• Blood clots

Tips on Care after Varicose Veins Laser Treatment

We are listing below some tips that can help you minimise the risks and fasten the recovery period following laser treatment for varicose veins:

• You may need to wear compression stockings for 1-2 weeks after your laser treatment to improve blood circulation and reduce swelling and discomfort.
• You can experience some tenderness and bruise at the site of the laser treatment, and your doctor may prescribe some mild painkillers to ease the discomfort.
• Walk for 15-20 minutes at least two times a day. Do light exercises (not strenuous ones) daily. Remaining active is important post laser treatment to prevent blood clotting.
• Avoid sitting and standing for long periods at a stretch.
• Elevate your legs above the heart level, so that the blood flows to the heart and there is less pressure on the veins. This will help them heal faster.
• You may shower, but avoid taking a hot bath or soaking in a tub or swimming for at least a week.
• Avoid driving for a couple of days.
• Do not lift heavy weights for a couple of weeks post laser treatment.
• Look out for the signs and symptoms of blood clots such as cramping pain in the thighs or legs, warmth, swelling, etc. Blood clots are rare after laser treatment of varicose veins, but can be life-threatening. Thus, it warrants immediate medical attention.

Though the laser treatment is safe and painless, following the tips mentioned above and the instructions given by your doctor will ensure faster healing without any complications.

Conclusion

Varicose veins are typically harmless, but the blood congestion in the veins of the legs can lead to chronic swelling, pain, and even ulcer formation, which can cause a lot of discomfort. Compression stockings are the first line of treatment for varicose veins. If the conventional methods are not enough, your doctor may advise some procedures like sclerotherapy, surgery, or endovenous laser/radiofrequency ablation. Laser treatment is the most preferred choice because it is a minimally invasive, scar-less, outpatient procedure, which has high efficacy and least complications.

For best results, you must choose a modern medical facility with state-of-the-art laser equipment and radiologists, who have expertise in this treatment modality.

Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Call 18605002244