Small valves inside the veins help blood flow properly through them. Varicose veins develop when these valves do not work properly, allowing blood to collect in the veins. Varicose veins are dark purple or blue colored swollen, enlarged, tortuous and twisting veins; the milder form is known as spider veins due to high resemblance with the spider legs. It has high prevalence in pregnant women and overweight individuals; affecting 23% adults every year. They mostly appear on the legs and feet; however, face can also be affected. The main reason of varicose veins is the turbulent flow of the blood due to abnormal function of the valves present in veins, which cause the blood to pool. Patient often complains about aching legs and swollen ankles.
Varicose veins need no treatment unless the patient is bothered by the unaesthetic appearance of veins on legs, skin discoloration, pains or considerable discomfort. At Rao Dermatology, we offer laser treatment and sclerotherapy for varicose veins. Which treatment will be suitable to which patient, depends upon the proper medical history, general examination, proper diagnosis and severity of the condition.
Laser therapy requires application of local anesthesia and insertion of a catheter into the patient’s vein followed by small laser positioned at the top of the target vein. Laser shuts or closes the vein by passing short energy bursts; with the help of an ultrasound scan. Sclerotherapy involves injecting the unwanted veins with a sclerosing solution causes the target vein to immediately shrink, and then dissolve over a period of weeks as the body naturally absorbs the treated vein. Sclerotherapy is a non-invasive procedure taking only about 10 minutes to perform.
Possible side effects or brief injury can occur; however, it all depends on the severity of the condition, aggressive approach to treat the condition and number of sessions required.
Contact RAO DERMATOLOGY for expert opinion and best treatment approach suitable for your condition.