Spring is here and as you reach for your shorts and skirts at the back of your wardrobe will you be one of those people who wish you’d had your varicose veins treated over the winter months? The good news is that you can, of course, have them treated at any time of year. The walk-in walk-out treatments we offer at enhanceskin require no downtime.
Varicose veins are a common issue in New Zealand with up to 40% of women and 25% of men affected by varicose veins of varying severity, with plenty in their 20s and 30s affected. Nevertheless, we know that many of you have unanswered questions about them, so in this article, we’re going to answer five questions about varicose veins.
What causes varicose veins?
Veins form an essential part of the circulatory system, returning blood to the heart after body cells exchange waste products for Oxygen. Varicose veins, however, are a sign of an underlying problem. Varicose veins may develop through a combination of underlying factors; weakened vein walls, high venous pressures, and faulty valves. Healthy valves open to allow blood flow, then close to stop it flowing backwards. When this malfunctions, the blood pools, creating a bulging knotted look.
But what leads to these causes in the first place?
While there are some factors that may increase your risks, such as obesity or a sedentary lifestyle. The main cause of why you will develop varicose veins over another person who won’t boils down to the genetic card you are dealt in life!
How do I know if I have a varicose vein?
Some people may have visible symptoms. Varicose Veins can present as bulging, blue coloured ropey cords running beneath the surface of your skin. But, they are not always visible, as they can be located deeper in the leg. Some things to look out for are skin changes, together with achy, heavy or tired legs. Restless legs, which are crampy or tingly, particularly at night, may also be a symptom of varicose veins.
If I have a varicose vein, am I likely to get more in the future?
Unfortunately, yes. Varicose veins are a progressive disease and will only get worse unless they are treated. While we can treat current disease, we cannot cure the underlying disease process. So, new varicose veins may develop. Although, how fast this happens cannot be accurately determined or predicted. However, the younger someone presents with varicose veins, may suggest that new ones will appear sooner, than in someone who presents over the age of, say, fifty.
What treatments are available at enhanceskin?
All of our treatments are walk-in and walk-out.
Ultrasound Guided Foam Sclerotherapy (UGFS) uses specialised ultrasound equipment to guide injections of sclerosant which permanently closes the vein. This procedure is virtually painless, so requires no anaesthesia.
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), the gold standard for varicose vein treatment, again, requires no general anaesthesia or hospital stay. You walk in and walk out (wearing compression stockings for two weeks), and you are even able to drive home afterwards.
The newest treatment we offer is Venaseal, a medical glue that closes off Varicose Veins. There is no need for stockings in those who it suits as a treatment! And air travel is allowed at any point after treatment.
Before we embark on any treatment plan, we offer a FREE full doctor’s vein assessment, and a scan to help to determine the treatment most suitable for you. Your treatment plan also includes follow-up appointments for twelve months afterwards.
Contact us to book your appointment with David!
