Conservative Treatments

1. Lifestyle Changes:

   • Exercise: Regular physical activity, such as walking, improves circulation and strengthens the muscles in the legs, which can help alleviate symptoms.
   • Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the veins and can help prevent worsening of varicose veins.
   • Elevating Legs: Elevating the legs above the heart level can help reduce swelling and improve blood flow.
   • Avoiding Prolonged Standing: Taking breaks to move around and avoiding standing in one place for extended periods can help reduce venous pressure.

2. Compression Therapy:

   • Compression Stockings: These specialized stockings apply graduated pressure to the legs, helping to improve blood flow and reduce swelling. They are available in various strengths and lengths and should be fitted properly for effectiveness.

3. Medications:

   • Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage discomfort.
   • Venoactive Drugs: Certain medications, like those containing flavonoids, may help improve vein tone and reduce symptoms.

Minimally Invasive Treatments

1. Sclerotherapy:

   • Procedure: A solution (sclerosant) is injected directly into the varicose vein, causing it to collapse and eventually be reabsorbed by the body. This treatment is effective for smaller veins and spider veins.
   • Post-Treatment: Patients may experience minor bruising or redness but can generally resume normal activities quickly.

2. Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT):

   • Procedure: A laser fiber is inserted into the affected vein through a small incision. Laser energy is used to heat and close off the vein, which is then absorbed by the body.
   • Recovery: This technique usually requires minimal downtime, and patients can often return to their regular activities shortly after.

3. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA):

   • Procedure: A catheter is inserted into the vein, and radiofrequency energy is used to heat and close the vein. The vein is then absorbed by the body.
   • Recovery: Similar to EVLT, RFA is minimally invasive with a quick recovery time.

4. Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy:

   • Procedure: A foam sclerosant is injected into the vein under ultrasound guidance, allowing precise treatment of larger veins that might be more difficult to address with standard sclerotherapy.
   • Post-Treatment: This approach can be effective for larger varicose veins and requires follow-up to assess effectiveness.

Surgical Treatments

1. Vein Stripping:

   • Procedure: This surgical procedure involves removing the affected veins through small incisions. It is usually performed under general anesthesia and may be recommended for more severe cases.
   • Recovery: Postoperative recovery may take several weeks, with potential for bruising and swelling. Patients typically need to wear compression stockings and follow a specific recovery plan.

2. Ambulatory Phlebectomy:

   • Procedure: Small varicose veins are removed through tiny skin punctures using a special surgical hook. This procedure is usually done under local anesthesia.
   • Recovery: Patients often experience minimal downtime and can resume normal activities fairly quickly.

Post-Treatment Care

• Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor the success of the treatment and to manage any potential complications.
• Wound Care: Proper care of any incisions or injection sites is essential for preventing infections and ensuring proper healing.
• Continued Lifestyle Management: Ongoing lifestyle modifications, including exercise and weight management, are crucial for long-term management and prevention of new varicose veins.

When to See a Specialist

It’s important to consult a healthcare provider or a specialist in venous diseases if you experience symptoms of varicose veins, such as leg pain, swelling, or visible veins. They can provide a thorough evaluation and recommend the most appropriate treatment options based on the severity of the condition and individual health factors.