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Explaining The Varicose Vein Treatments Somerville, NJ Residents Can Find

By Olive Pate


Swollen blood vessels in the legs that are visible through the skin are called varicose veins. These veins have numerous kinks in them and are bluish or purple in color. Some people can live with this condition without suffering any adverse affects. Other people seek varicose vein treatments Somerville, NJ residents can rely on to eliminate symptoms, treat complications, or for cosmetic reasons.

People of both genders can develop this condition but more women than men suffer with this condition. Some researchers believe this is because some female hormones can weaken blood vessel walls. Tiny valves inside blood vessels keep the blood moving in the right direction. Blood sometimes pools in the veins causing them to bulge when these valves fail. Overweight individuals may experience deformed veins due to the excess pressure.

Only some people experience symptoms but many people with this condition do not. Itching and aching are the top complaints of people who have discomfort. Sometimes the condition worsens with age and causes complications such as changes in skin color, excessive bleeding, and venous ulcers.

The good news for patients is most treatments for varicose veins are minimally invasive. This means they can be done on an outpatient basis eliminating the need for costly overnight hospital stays. Many times the physician can perform the procedure in the doctor's office.

Before attempting even a minimally invasive procedure, doctors usually ask the patient to see if a variety of lifestyle changes will help. Obese patients should try increasing physical activity and eating a nutritious diet. Sometimes weight loss alone will eliminate symptoms. Wearing compression garments that apply pressure to encourage good circulation can also help. Keeping the legs elevated and taking breaks often when forced to stand or sit for prolonged periods are additional tips for managing varicose veins.

Endothermal ablation is a procedure that destroys any damaged blood vessels by applying heat from the inside. This is done with radio waves or a laser. First, the surgeon makes a small insertion to introduce a catheter into the leg. A special probe delivers the light or radio wave, which heats up the interior walls and seals them shut. The patient receives a local anesthetic to deaden the pain at the incision site.

Sclerotherapy involves injecting foam that scars the damaged blood vessels and seals them shut. This procedure requires a local anesthetic and may be the best option if the patient is not a good candidate for endothermal ablation. It takes a few weeks for healthy veins to take over and the varicose veins to fade. Some patients require more than one treatment and the veins reappear in some cases.

Ligation and stripping is the most involved procedure available. This is a major surgery and it must take place in a hospital setting. The patient is put under with general anesthesia but in most cases will not have to spend the night. Individuals suffering with this condition can find a qualified physician with experience in all treatment types. Patients should carefully review each procedure and weigh the benefits and risks before making a final decision.




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