Varicose veins affect millions of people around the world. However, they are more prevalent in women than in men. Fortunately, thanks to advances in technology, you have many options when it comes to varicose vein treatment. In Fort Myers, you will find minimally invasive treatments such as sclerotherapy and laser ablation to completely removed the affected vein. Here are your top options in Fort Myers for varicose vein treatment.
Lifestyle changes – heredity is the main cause of varicose veins, so if your family members have them, there is a good chance you will as well. There are a few things you can do to minimize or stop the development of varicose veins, starting with lifestyle changes. Sitting or standing for long periods may cause your veins to overwork because it is more difficult for them to keep the blood flowing against gravity and back to your heart. Exercise is the key to good circulation. If you are overweight, it may help to lose weight because this also puts too much pressure on the legs and slows blood flow.
Sclerotherapy – this is a minimally invasive treatment that involves injecting a chemical directly into the affected vein. The chemical is usually a saline solution and it irritates the vein wall causing it to collapse and close the vein. The blood will naturally flow through healthy veins. After a few weeks or months, the vein is absorbed by the body and completely disappears. This is used to treat small to medium varicose veins. Larger veins may be treated with foam sclerotherapy. The method is the same, but the chemical is made into a foam and injected into the vein. The foam will cover a larger area than liquid.
Endovenous treatments – these treatments also damage the inside of the vein, causing it to collapse. Laser surgery involves inserting a catheter into the vein with a laser inside. As the catheter is pulled out, the laser light damages the vein wall. This can also be done with radio waves. These procedures are minimally invasive, and you can go home the same day. Both endovenous treatments and sclerotherapy only require a local anesthetic.
Phlebectomy – This option involves pulling the damaged vein out completely. You can go home the same day, but there may be restrictions for a few days of recovery. This procedure only requires a local anesthetic.
When you talk to our vein specialist at Cardiology Consultants of Southwest Florida in Fort Myers, your varicose veins may be examined. This is your opportunity to ask questions and learn about the best varicose vein treatment for your needs. Contact us today to schedule your initial appointment and learn more about your options!
