There are varicose vein treatment clinic Adelaide available to treat the symptomatic condition of varicose veins. These include laser treatment, sclerotherapy, endothermal ablation, and compression stockings. Let’s discuss the benefits of each of these treatments. Which one is right for you? First, read on to learn about the different options available to you. Then, here is a breakdown of the pros and cons of each.
Laser
A Laser varicose vein treatment clinic in Adelaide uses Nd: YAG laser light to destroy the diseased vein wall. This treatment is effective in the short term but only works in the long term as the other veins that supply blood to the affected area remain healthy. First, a patient is assessed for suitability. Next, a surgeon will discuss all possible options and decide which treatment method best meets their needs.
Various modalities are available to treat varicose veins, including endovenous laser ablation, ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy, and surgical procedures. Endovenous thermal ablation is the most common and has the highest target-vein closure rate. However, this procedure is not without risk. CAC is considered a safe alternative because of the minimal damage to surrounding structures.
Sclerotherapy
Patients should consult a doctor before having sclerotherapy. This procedure involves injecting a solution of salt or saline into the vein. This procedure usually causes only mild discomfort for a few minutes. However, in some cases, larger veins may cause mild cramping. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity for 15 to 30 minutes after the procedure. However, low-impact exercises such as walking and swimming are perfectly acceptable after the procedure.
Pregnant women cannot have sclerotherapy. Patients on birth control pills can also undergo the procedure. Patients are required to undergo a few treatments to see positive results. Generally, patients will need two to three treatments. If new veins occur after the first, touch-up treatments can be done for optimum results. In most cases, 95% of patients report satisfactory results. Sclerotherapy for varicose vein treatment clinic Adelaide
Endothermal ablation
Despite its name, endothermal ablation for varicose blood vessels is not a surgery. Instead, it is blocking veins without using anaesthesia, which is effective for treating superficial veins. These include the great saphenous vein, which runs from the groin to the ankle, and the smaller, accessory saphenous vein, which extends from the thigh to the ankle.
There are risks associated with this treatment. Some side effects include thermal nerve damage, which is rare and disappears after a short period. Thrombophlebitis is another possible side effect, and it can cause pain and redness in the treated area. However, this side effect is usually self-limiting and responds to nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs and ice application. In sporadic cases, blood clots may travel to the lungs. Although rare, this condition can cause a pulmonary embolism.
Compression stockings
Patients suffering from varicose veins can have their condition treated using ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy or compression stockings. These stockings are applied to the leg affected by the condition. Following treatment, patients must wear a compression stocking for a few hours. Afterwards, they can return to their normal activities. After two weeks, patients can engage in low-impact exercises like walking or swimming. However, they should avoid strenuous activities such as running.
Compression stockings are designed to increase blood circulation. They reduce the symptoms of leg swelling and pain and reduce bruising and clotting. Patients wearing these stockings should wear them regularly or risk suffering adverse side effects. The stockings should also be kept dry and clean to minimize irritation and the risk of infection. However, patients should not wear compression stockings for two or three weeks.
Exercise to prevent varicose veins
In preventing varicose veins, exercise is essential. Standing for extended periods can obstruct blood flow and cause blood clots. Walking and standing on your toes are both beneficial exercises. Avoid sitting cross-legged or sitting on a hard surface for too long. Sitting in a sedentary position can also exacerbate varicose veins. Shifting your weight from the heels to the balls of your feet is an excellent exercise for varicose vein prevention.