If you suffer from painful and frustrating varicose veins, it may be time for you to take the next step with endovenous ablation. It is a very effective minimally-invasive treatment to permanently remove varicose veins. The procedure may involve radiofrequency to cauterize the affected vein and seal it shut.
What Is Endovenous Ablation?
Varicose veins form when the blood that should move up your legs back to the heart stalls and pools in the vein. The vein wall gradually becomes too weak to hold the excess blood and stretches out to form the ropy swollen veins. Ablation is the name for removing tissue from the body, and in the case of varicose veins, the treatment is administered inside the vein.
Radiofrequency energy is directed into the vein to coagulate the blood and damage the vein wall. The vein collapses and becomes sealed off from the other veins and the blood is naturally redirected to healthy veins.
What Are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are usually quite obvious just under the surface of the skin. They look like bluish, twisted ropes and can be embarrassing especially during the summer months when it is more likely your legs will be exposed. For some people, varicose veins can form inside the leg and do not show on the surface. If you have certain symptoms, you may need to visit our specialist and have your varicose veins treated before they become more severe. The symptoms include:
• Swelling around the ankles and feet
• Aching and throbbing in the lower legs
• Cramps in the lower legs especially at night
• Unbearable itching around the ankles that may produce bleeding
• Small sores around the ankles
• Skin discoloration
• Hard, red areas on the legs that feel hot
What to Expect from Endovenous Ablation?
When you have your first consultation with our doctor, your medical history will be considered as well as any medications including dietary supplements you are taking. You may be asked to stop taking blood thinners for a few days before the treatment.
At the time of the procedure, you will be given numbing medication. When the vein is collapsed, it will become like scar tissue and be absorbed by the body. The doctor may put gentle pressure on the vein to help it close. You may be asked to wear compression stockings for a week or two to maintain the pressure. We recommend that you have someone drive you home after the procedure.
Whether it is for cosmic or medical reasons, you no longer need to continue suffering from varicose veins. Visit Pacific Vein Care in McHenry to learn more about endovenous ablation. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
