What are Varicose Veins?

A Few Interesting Facts

• Women are more prone to this condition compared to men.
• It is particularly common during pregnancy due to the increased weight of the enlarged uterus exerting pressure on the veins.
• It's important to note that varicose veins and spider veins are distinct conditions.
• These veins have faulty valves, which typically play a crucial role in keeping the blood moving toward the heart and preventing backflow.
• Prolonged periods of standing or sitting, leading to the pooling of blood, can contribute to the development of varicose veins.
• The trapped blood inside the varicose veins may appear bluish/greenish, although it is actually the normal red color. This color alteration is a result of the change in the wavelength of light passing through the skin.
• Varicose veins may not always be solely a cosmetic concern. In advanced stages, complications such as thrombophlebitis, dermatitis, or lipodermatosclerosis may occur.
• Additionally, varicose veins can occasionally be the only sign of an underlying condition and should, therefore, be thoroughly investigated.

How are Varicose Veins diagnosed?

Varicose veins are typically diagnosed through a simple physical examination. However, additional tests may be necessary to assess the extent of the issue and rule out any other conditions. Your healthcare provider may commonly recommend a Venous Colour Doppler as part of the diagnostic process.

Should Varicose Veins be treated? How?

Dynamic treatment for varicose veins may not always be medically necessary, especially in the earlier stages. At this stage, lifestyle changes, exercises, compression stockings, and medications can help control the condition and may halt its progression. However, many patients, particularly females, opt for treatment for cosmetic reasons. If the disease has advanced or complications have arisen, surgical treatment becomes inevitable. There are several treatment options for varicose veins. Among the surgical choices, EVLA is currently the most advanced one and has been described below. This information is provided to guide you and raise awareness. Please be aware that ultimately, a detailed discussion with a Vein Specialist will help you make a decision that's right for you.

Lifestyle Modifications

There are specific self-help measures you can take to alleviate your symptoms. These include losing any excess weight and engaging in light to moderate physical activity, such as swimming or walking. Avoid standing for long periods, as this leads to pooling of blood in the veins and may worsen your symptoms. While resting, elevate the legs by placing two pillows beneath the feet. This helps in draining the pooled blood from the veins.

Venous Stockings / Compression Stockings

They help maintain the blood flow in the leg veins and reduce leg swelling. They also help decrease the risk of blood clots forming within the veins. These garments enhance the effectiveness of the natural pumping mechanism of the leg muscles, promoting blood flow back towards the heart. The stockings are worn during the day and removed before going to bed at night. They should be worn again first thing in the morning

Endovenous Laser Ablation ( EVLA )

The LEONARDO® laser is a versatile, highly compact diode laser with a dual wavelength (980nm and 1470 nm). Utilizing Mythical Beings Radial™ fibers in this procedure enhances the precision of the treatment. This advanced laser was initially introduced in the country at Healing Hands Clinic, proving highly effective for varicose vein surgeries with Mythical Beings Radial™ fibers.

The ELVeS® fiber, equipped with an atraumatic fiber tip, is inserted into the affected vein through a small incision. The two-phase spiral emission of energy through the ELVeS® fibers allows for homogeneous application to the vessel wall, ensuring precise vein sealing. With perfect visibility through ultrasound, the fiber can be monitored and positioned exceptionally well, minimizing the risk of perforating the vein wall, and reducing the likelihood of symptoms associated with traditional varicose vein treatments.

The entire treatment typically takes about 30-45 minutes. Both during and after the procedure, patients experience minimal discomfort. They can resume their daily activities the day following the treatment. One key advantage of the Leonardo laser over other lasers is its dual wavelength, significantly reducing the recurrence rate and minimizing pain associated with the procedure compared to alternative laser treatments.