Most people can live with varicose veins without experiencing any discomfort. In such cases, you may not need treatment unless your appearance affects your self-esteem. In other cases, the disorder may lead to painful symptoms that prevent you from completing your daily activities. TLC Medical Group Inc experts restore your self-confidence and quality of life by providing several varicose veins Port Saint Lucie treatment options.
An overview of varicose veins
Varicose veins refer to the prominent, cord-like veins that develop anywhere on your body but more often at the back of your legs. Generally, these veins are not a severe medical disorder; in most cases, they don’t need medical intervention. But if they interfere with your self-confidence or make you feel less attractive, you can consult your physician about the treatments. In some cases, varicose veins can result in uncomfortable and painful complications such as venous ulcers. At this point, the disorder ceases to be a cosmetic issue and becomes a severe medical condition. If left untreated, the venous ulcers may deteriorate and lead to amputation.
Factors elevating your risk of varicose veins
The valves in your veins are meant to hinder the backward flow of blood. When they malfunction, the blood flows backward and accumulates in the veins in your legs, causing them to become prominent and twisted. Although anyone can develop varicose veins, some factors may elevate your risk. For instance, as you age, your valves undergo wear and tear, causing them to weaken and allow the backward flow of blood. Women also have a higher risk due to hormonal changes during pregnancy and menstruation. These fluctuations cause the vein walls to relax, resulting in blood pooling. Other factors include long periods of sitting or standing, family history, and obesity.
Available treatment options for varicose veins
During your TLC Medical Group Inc. appointment, your provider discusses your symptoms, reviews your medical history, and completes a thorough physical exam. The specialist may also check for swelling in your legs while standing and request you to describe the aching and discomfort in your legs. The team uses the venous Doppler ultrasound to diagnose varicose veins accurately. It is a noninvasive test that utilizes sound waves to monitor the blood flow through your veins. Your doctor may also recommend a leg ultrasound to check for blood clots. This test involves a small hand-held device that your doctor glides across your skin. The device then sends the images of your veins to a monitor.
Your treatment will rely on the severity of your symptoms. For mild varicose veins, the team may recommend self-care measures, compression stockings, and surgical intervention for severe cases. These procedures are usually outpatient, meaning you get home the same day. If home remedies and compression stockings prove ineffective, your provider may recommend sclerotherapy. The technique involves injecting the affected with a foam that seals the veins. Other surgical treatments include high ligation and vein stripping, laser treatment, and ambulatory phlebectomy.
Don’t allow varicose veins to interfere with your social life or mobility when you can obtain excellent medical care by calling the TLC Medical Group Inc or scheduling an appointment online.
