What are Varicose Veins?
We all know varicose veins by their unsightly worm-like appearance on the legs. This happens when the valves within the veins become damaged, it can cause pools of blood to form which causes them to become enlarged and swollen. These veins usually carry less than 5% of the body’s blood flow and are usually causing much more harm than good. Varicose veins can affect your self-confidence. Besides being unsightly, they often cause long-term pain and discomfort.
Don’t stress, you are not alone. Almost 35% of Australians are living with varicose veins, which are prominent, enlarged, and often very painful, coloured blue, purple or green. They can cause swelling, cramps, itchiness, and heaviness in the legs.
Out of embarrassment, most people with varicose veins go for years without wearing shorts and skirts and hate going to the beach because they need to wear bathers.
Me Clinic has 35 plus years experience! Our experienced team has successfully treated thousands of clients, helping them restore their self-confidence, freeing them from pain. Our experienced team has successfully treated thousands of clients, helping them restore their self-confidence, freeing them from pain. We utilise the latest advances in non-invasive medical treatments, meaning no hospital stays. Please note that individual results may vary.
Why do I have Varicose Veins?
There are many reasons as to why varicose veins form, the main ones being hereditary, age, pregnancy, and jobs that require prolonged standing (e.g. teachers, hairdressers, and retail staff).Out of the many reasons people get varicose veins the main one is that it’s hereditary.
Next on the cards is age and of course pregnancy.So now you know all about your varicose veins, the biggest question is, how do we get rid of them for good?!
How do I treat my Varicose Veins?
The first step is to attend an initial consultation with one of our experienced doctors. We will assess your veins and advise of your suitability for treatment.
At Me Clinic we offer the following varicose veins treatments:
Sclerotherapy – Sclerotherapy is the recommended treatment for smaller accessory veins to prevent their deterioration into larger bulging varicose veins. Sclerotherapy can eliminate large veins, either alone, or in conjunction with less invasive outpatient surgery.
Sclerotherapy is a commonly used treatment for smaller accessory veins.
During your treatment, a sclerosant solution is injected into the vein through a tiny needle. The solution replaces the blood in the vein, generating irritation and corrosion to the walls of the vessel. The body then initiates the natural healing process and the vein begins to decompose, shrink, and eventually disappear.
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) – EVLT is often used for treating larger veins such as the Greater Saphenous and Small Saphenous veins. Please note that individual results may vary. The main advantage of Endovenous Laser Treatments (EVLT) is their effectiveness in treating large veins with a short recovery period and the patient is up and walking immediately compared to the Surgical stripping of veins.
The treatment involves the insertion of a Fibre-optic probe into the offending vein. With the Laser light in the probe, the vein is heated along its length causing it to shrink, due to the heat effect on existing collagen in the walls of the vein.
The treated vein develops new collagen during the healing process. After your Endovenous Laser Treatments (EVLT) any remaining surface Varicose and Spider Veins can be treated with Sclerotherapy.
What happens after the treatment?
Bruising can be expected, and in some cases, your veins could turn dark temporarily after the treatment but return to normal. You may experience some tenderness and redness along sections of the injected veins after the treatment. Walking is required as this will reduce any discomfort.
Compression stockings or socks are required for up to seven days after the treatment. This application of pressure will help reduce side effects and aid in more effective healing and treatment.
In most cases, you will be able to resume regular activities immediately. However, excessive standing or vigorous activities are not advised for two to four days.
What happens if my Varicose Veins are left untreated?
If left untreated, varicose veins can cause further complications throughout your body. As more blood circulates and pools within the vein it can leak outside the vein and ‘poison’ the surrounding area. Its very important that you have your varicose veins examined.
Maybe it’s time to visit me clinic to get those pesky veins treated.
Give the team a call on 9569 3511 and let us help you.
