How Vein Care Works

The veins carry oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. They also help regulate blood pressure and remove waste products. Varicose veins occur when the walls of these veins stretch and the valves that control flow become faulty. It's not clear why this happens. But health experts know that pregnancy, birth control pills, and aging increase the risk for more details contact Center for Advanced Vein Care.

A person may have pain or tenderness in their legs because the varicose veins irritate the surrounding tissues and cause them to swell. Sometimes, these veins break open and form open sores called ulcers. These sores are difficult to heal and may lead to infection. In addition, if left untreated, the varicose veins will get worse over time.

Treatments include compression therapy, a procedure in which a doctor wraps a snug bandage around the legs, or a more invasive surgery to remove the varicose veins. Some insurers cover these treatments.

During compression therapy, the tight bandage puts gentle pressure on the legs to encourage blood flow and prevent swelling. It's usually done on an outpatient basis under local or spinal anesthesia. It takes several weeks to recover from this treatment.

A doctor can treat spider veins and small varicose veins by injecting them with a chemical that causes them to close. This is a procedure known as sclerotherapy.

Another procedure is radiofrequency ablation. During this procedure, a doctor threads a thin tube, called a catheter, into the affected vein. Then, using a special device that emits short bursts of energy, the doctor heats up the vein walls, causing them to collapse and seal shut. It's an alternative to stripping, which involves tying off and removing the varicose vein surgically, usually in the groin.

For larger varicose veins, a doctor makes a small incision near the affected area. Then, they insert a catheter into the affected vein and guide it up to the faulty valves. Then, they use a laser to heat up the inside of the vein and damage its walls, causing it to close. The doctor then removes the varicose vein through the incision. This procedure can be done under local, spinal, or general anesthesia.

A patient can have surgery to remove severe varicose veins, but it's usually only recommended if other treatments don't work or if a person has more serious health problems. During surgery, the doctor makes an incision near the dilated vein and uses a tool or needle to remove the vein segment by segment.

In many cases, varicose and spider veins can be treated at home. A person should elevate their legs when they're sitting for long periods of time, wear loose clothing that doesn't constrict, and avoid wearing tight socks or stockings. In addition, a person should drink plenty of water and exercise to improve circulation. They should also avoid sitting or standing in one position for more than 30 minutes at a time and try to bend or move their legs as much as possible. If symptoms persist, a person should call their healthcare provider.