Varicose Vein Pain Relief is Available
Greater than 20 percent of women and seven percent of men suffer from venous disease in the United States. The common symptoms of varicose vein include aching pain, swelling and itching in the legs. In the past, invasive surgery was required to remove them. Varicose veins are veins that become swollen and large — often due to defective valves in the vein.
With technology improvements today, one of the first treatments offered will usually be endothermal ablation. This treatment involves using energy either from high-frequency radio waves (radiofrequency ablation) or lasers (endovenous laser treatment) to seal the affected veins.
Radio frequency ablation
Radiofrequency ablation involves heating the wall of your varicose vein using a catheter inside the vein that delivers radiofrequency energy to heat the vein until its walls collapse, closing it and sealing it shut. Once the vein has been sealed shut, your blood will naturally be redirected to one of your healthy veins. Local anesthetic is commonly used around the vein and compression stockings are worn for up to two weeks after. Bruising, tightness and minimal pain are common afterwards — especially when the procedure is done with “microphlebectomy,” the removal of varicose vein clusters via tiny incisions.
Endovenous laser therapy
During endovenous laser therapy a catheter is inserted into your vein, followed by a tiny laser that delivers short bursts of energy to heat up the vein and seal it closed. The laser is slowly pulled along the vein, using the ultrasound scan to guide it, allowing the entire length of the vein to be closed. Local anesthetic is commonly used as a cushion around the vein. Stockings are generally worn for two weeks after. Tightness in your legs, bruising and minimal pain may occur– especially when the laser is done together with removal of vein clusters via “microphlebectomy”.
Natural or home therapies
In some cases, varicose veins can be treated at home. Simple methods for easing the symptoms include:
- Eat right (think natural and pure)
- Exercise (move your legs)
- Avoid high fructose corn syrup and hydrogenated oils
- Use natural sweeteners (e.g. honey and molasses)
- Avoid processed foods
- Drink purified water
- Horse chestnut seed supplement
The female doctor at Lakeshore Veins has more than 20 years of experience. We are a total vein care center and have several varicose vein treatment options available. We know how to create a personalized treatment plan to treat your varicose veins, vein disorders and leg pain in Milwaukee. Visit our spa-like atmosphere to discuss your varicose vein treatment options. Our venous experts offer a number of minimally invasive, in-office procedures to rid you of your vein pain. Call (262) 241-3999 or Contact Us Online to learn more about leg swelling in Milwaukee or varicose vein treatment options.
