Varicose veins
are twisted, enlarged veins that do not move blood efficiently and are most common in the legs and feet. They can be unsightly and for many people, varicose veins are simply a cosmetic concern. In more serious cases, they cause pain and discomfort and can put you at risk for other circulatory disorders. Several self-care strategies and natural treatments can manage the pain of this condition, improve blood flow, keep existing veins from getting worse and prevent new ones from forming. If you want or need to get rid of the veins completely, certain procedures are available.
Considerations for Vein Removal
Be wary about treatments that are marketed as unique, permanent or painless. They often do not live up to those claims. If varicose veins are not causing complications and treatment is purely for cosmetic purposes, your insurance is unlikely to cover the procedure. No treatment can guarantee that varicose veins will never come back. If you are pregnant, your condition usually resolves itself within three months of giving birth.
Procedures
Sclerotherapy involves injecting varicose veins with a substance that produces scarring and closure of the veins. Treated veins usually fade a few weeks after treatment. Anesthesia is not necessary and this procedure can be performed in your doctor's office.
Laser surgeries blast strong bursts of light onto the affected veins; this causes them to gradually fade and disappear. This treatment is only appropriate for smaller veins.
Catheter-assisted procedures are commonly used for larger veins. It involves inserting a thin tube into the varicose vein which is then heated. As the doctor removes the tube, the heat causes the vein to collapse and seal shut.
Vein stripping removes the vein through small incisions. It is usually performed on an outpatient basis. This procedure will not affect circulation because the deeper veins in the leg are the ones responsible for larger amounts of blood.
If your condition is causing leg ulcers, you will require endoscopic vein surgery. This procedure involves putting a small video camera into the leg to locate the and close the affected veins. They are then removed through small incisions.
Self-Care Strategies
Compression stockings are normally the first line of treatment for varicose veins. They continuously squeeze your legs, which assists the veins and leg muscles in transporting the blood more efficiently. The level of compression varies depending on the type of stocking. They are available at pharmacies and medical supply stores. Your doctor can help you determine what type is best for you.
In addition to compression stockings, you want to incorporate certain self-care strategies. Exercise improves circulation in your legs; walking is a good choice. Losing extra pounds relieves pressure in your veins. Do not wear high heels. Low-heeled shoes exercise the calf muscle more which is beneficial for your veins. Several times a day, elevate your legs above your heart for a few minutes. Do not sit or stand in one position for long periods of time; move around every half hour or so. Some doctors think sitting with your legs crossed impedes proper circulation
Natural Treatments
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the following natural therapies might prevent new varicose veins from forming, keep existing ones from worsening and treat symptoms. Consulting with a health care provider experienced in natural medicine can help you design a treatment regimen.
Eat whole grains and foods rich in bioflavonoids like dark berries, dark leafy greens, garlic and onions. They contain substances beneficial for vein health. Rutin strengthens veins and improves their function; take 500 mg twice a day. Grape seed contains substances that reduce swelling and prevents vein leakage; take 720 mg daily. Do not use grape seed if you take blood-thinning medication.
Certain herbal supplements address venous insufficiency, a complication of varicose veins that interferes with the legs in the veins sending blood back to the heart. Horse chestnut and gotu kola are two of the most effective. Take 250 mg daily of horse chestnut or 200 mg two to four times a day of gotu kola. Avoid both of these if you have any liver disorders. You should not use horse chestnut if you have kidney problems or take blood-thinning medications. Butcher's broom reduces swelling; take 150 mg three times a day.
Tags: varicose veins, your legs, affected veins, from forming, gotu kola, horse chestnut