If you have noticed symptoms of varicose veins or spider veins, you may wonder if it is time to visit a vascular surgeon for treatment. To find out whether you should make an appointment, ask yourself the following questions.
1. Have my veins changed?
For most people, the first symptom of varicose veins or spider veins is a change in the appearance of the veins on the face, hands, chest or legs. Varicose veins are most common on the legs and usually appear as large, bulging veins that may be raised above the skin’s surface. Spider veins, on the other hand, are smaller and easily visible through the skin, but they don’t usually bulge or swell.
2. Do I have other symptoms?
Abnormal veins can cause physical symptoms in addition to cosmetic concerns. These symptoms are most pronounced when varicose veins develop in the legs. Some of the most common symptoms include restlessness, swelling, throbbing, weakness, pain, itching and more. In the worst cases, varicose veins may even cause ulcerations in the skin. People with abnormal veins often notice that their symptoms get worse after they spend time on their feet.
3. Do my veins respond to conservative treatment from a vascular surgeon?
Some mild cases of abnormal veins may respond to conservative treatment methods you can use at home, such as compression stockings to reduce swelling, elevation of your legs and regular exercise. For patients who are overweight, weight loss can also reduce the symptoms of abnormal veins.
Unfortunately, not all patients will benefit from conservative vein treatment. In other cases, you may notice an improvement after at-home treatment, but your abnormal veins may still be bothersome.
4. Am I interested in surgical treatment?
When conservative treatment isn’t enough to eliminate the symptoms of your condition entirely, a vein procedure can help. Some of the most common treatments offered to patients with spider veins or varicose veins include microphlectomy, sclerotherapy, laser ablation, nonthermal ablation and Venefit. All of these treatments are minimally invasive and carry few risks. However, you may still experience some discomfort and limited downtime. Nonetheless, for many patients, these treatments are the best way to eliminate symptoms and improve the appearance of abnormal veins.
If you have asked yourself the questions above and decided that you are ready to visit a vein doctor, contact Northwest Vein & Aesthetic Center today to schedule an appointment.
