What are the treatment options for varicose veins and when should I have my veins treated? This must be one of the most frequent questions we get asked at the VeinCare Centre.
In general, early interventions for varicose veins give the best results. Treatment is indicated for symptoms such as aching, swelling, throbbing and pain. Treatment is also indicated for visible bulging veins and thread veins which indicate the presence of superficial venous reflux. Treatment is also appropriate for complications such as phlebitis, varicose eczema, leg ulcers and deep vein thrombosis.
Treatment options such as endo-thermal ablation by laser (endo-venous laser EVLT), radiofrequency (VNUS Closure or Venefit) are generally regarded as “curative” as recurrence rates are very low. Ultrasound Guided Foam Sclerotherapy is a good option for those whose veins are not suitable for thermal or heat based treatments. Varicose vein removal by surgical stripping is now regarded as a poor third choice.
Very recently, non-thermal treatment by “super glue” has been introduced. This avoids heat energy and so there is much less need for local anaesthetic injections and compression stockings do not need to be worn afterwards.
For any individual, the “best treatment” is judged by the results of a duplex ultrasound scan.
In this short video I am interviewed by award winning journalist and medical writer, Ruth Wood, who raises just these sort of questions and more!
Contact me today for a confidential chat
If you’re worried about your veins and would like a confidential chat please do get in touch. I am happy to offer simple advice by telephone or email for free and without obligation.
The VeinCare Centre also offers a screening assessment with our vascular technologist. For £25 you can have a scan with Wendy Parsons. She is not a doctor and so she could not give you medical advice but she can check your deep veins and your varicose veins and give you an idea of how bad they are and whether laser might be suitable for you. If you would like to have an appointment with Wendy please call 0800 698 3467.