Varicose veins are a common problem that affects millions of people. They occur when the valves in your veins become weak or damaged, allowing blood to pool and enlarge the vein. This can cause pain, discomfort, swelling and even skin ulcers in extreme cases. Varicose veins can be cosmetically unappealing as well, leading many to seek treatment for them.

Fortunately, there are several treatments available for varicose veins today ranging from minimally invasive procedures like sclerotherapy to more complex surgical operations such as endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) or phlebectomy. However it’s important to consult with a vascular surgeon before deciding on any particular procedure so you can understand all the risks and benefits associated with each option.

Causes of varicose 

Varicose veins are caused by a number of factors, including age, gender, pregnancy, lifestyle choices and genetics. As we age, the valves in our veins become weaker and less able to keep blood from pooling or flowing back down the vein. Women are twice as likely to develop varicose veins due to their hormonal makeup, which causes their lower-body blood vessels to relax more easily. Pregnancy also increases the likelihood of developing varicose veins due to pressure placed on them by the growing baby. In addition, standing or sitting for long periods of time can cause weakened valves and the gravity forces they must resist will lead to pooling and enlargement of the veins. Finally, those with a family history of varicose veins have an increased risk of developing them as it is likely genetic in nature.

Symptoms of varicose

Varicose veins can cause a variety of symptoms. The most common sign of varicose veins is a twisted and swollen vein that appears just under the skin’s surface, which may be blue, purple or flesh colored. Other symptoms include pain or discomfort in the legs, swelling of the feet and ankles, dry and itchy skin on the legs, discoloration or inflammation near the affected veins, and a feeling of heaviness in the legs. In more severe cases, patients may also experience leg ulcers, muscle cramps and even blood clots.

Although these are all signs that you may have varicose veins, only a doctor can confirm whether you have them. A vascular surgeon will perform an ultrasound to diagnose varicose veins. This will allow them to accurately assess the size and shape of your veins as well as any underlying issues such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to other complications such as inflammation and infection as well as increased risk for heart disease and stroke.

Varicose Treatment

Varicose vein treatment has come a long way in recent years, making it safer and more effective than ever before. The two main types of treatment for varicose veins are minimally invasive procedures and surgeries.

Minimally invasive procedures include sclerotherapy, which uses injections to collapse the affected veins; endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), which uses heat energy to seal off the vein; and radiofrequency ablation (RFA), which uses radiofrequency energy to close off the vein. All three procedures are highly effective at treating varicose veins, but they also come with some risks such as infection or allergic reaction.

For patients who have more severe cases of varicose veins or those who don’t respond well to non-surgical procedures, surgery may be recommended by their vascular surgeon. This can include traditional surgical stripping of the affected veins, or newer techniques such as ambulatory phlebectomy and endoscopic vein surgery. These operations are major surgical procedures that require hospitalization and general anesthesia, so they should only be done if absolutely necessary.

Regardless of the type of treatment chosen, lifestyle modifications may also be recommended by your physician in order to reduce symptoms and recurrence rates. Some recommendations include wearing compression stockings (graduated compression hosiery) to improve circulation, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding standing for long periods of time, exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet rich in fiber and vitamins.

Overall, varicose vein treatments have come a long way in recent years with many new technologies available that make it safer than ever before. It is important to consult with a vascular surgeon so they can evaluate your condition and determine which procedure is best suited for you based on its level of severity. With the right type of care and lifestyle changes, varicose veins can be treated effectively with minimal side effects or complications.

Cost of varicose treatment

The cost of varicose vein treatment varies depending on the type of procedure chosen. Minimally invasive procedures such as sclerotherapy, EVLA, and RFA are generally more affordable than surgery. Sclerotherapy can range from $300-$500 per session, while EVLA and RFA can range from $1,500 to $2,000 per session. However, these costs can vary widely depending on the severity of the condition and whether they are being performed in a hospital or outpatient setting.

For surgical treatments such as vein stripping and endoscopic vein surgery, the cost is usually higher due to the need for hospitalization and anesthesia. According to Medica Health Plans, traditional open vein stripping typically costs between $3,000 and $7,000 dollars for both legs combined. Endoscopic vein surgery tends to be slightly more expensive at about $8,000 for both legs together.

In addition to the cost of these procedures themselves, patients may also face other expenses related to their treatment such as pre-operative exams, lab tests and follow-up appointments with their vascular surgeon. These additional fees can add up quickly so it is important for patients to factor in these costs when considering their options for treatment.

How to Choose the right Varicose vein treatment centers in Houston, Texas

When looking for a varicose vein treatment center in Houston, Texas it’s important to do your research and make sure you are selecting the best option for your needs. Before beginning any type of treatment, it’s essential to find a good doctor or vascular surgeon who is experienced with treating varicose veins and familiar with the latest treatments available. Ask around for recommendations from friends, family members and colleagues to get an idea of which practitioners they recommend.

It is also important to look into each clinic’s background information including their qualifications, experience and track record of successful treatments. Make sure to read patient reviews online so you can get an accurate assessment of what other people have experienced at that particular clinic.