Leg Pain While Walking? It Could Be Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Do your legs ache or feel heavy when you walk? It might not just be age. It could be peripheral artery disease (PAD). Read on to learn more.
Understanding Your Varicose Vein Treatment Options and Which Is Right for You
Varicose veins affect one in four people, and they’re often more than a cosmetic concern. For many people, they indicate an underlying venous insufficiency, meaning blood doesn’t flow back to the heart properly.
If you have venous insufficiency, you may experience symptoms like aching, heaviness, swelling, or throbbing. You may even have skin changes or ulcers if the condition is left untreated.
At Memphis Vein Center, Dr. Kishore K. Arcot and our team offer treatments to improve the look and physical symptoms of your varicose veins. Today’s options are safer, more effective, and far less invasive than the procedures of the past. This month’s blog aims to help you better understand your options for achieving comfort and improved blood flow.
The reason you develop varicose veins
Varicose veins develop when the valves inside your veins weaken or become damaged. Blood pools in the veins instead of moving upward efficiently, causing the vessels to enlarge and become visible beneath the skin.
Common risk factors include:
- Genetics
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Hormonal changes, including pregnancy
- Aging
- Obesity
Varicose veins can be discolored, puffy, and even tender to the touch.
When to seek treatment for varicose veins
You don’t have to wait until symptoms become severe. Make an appointment at Memphis Vein Center if you experience any of the following due to varicosity:
- Visible, bulging veins
- Leg heaviness or fatigue
- Swelling, especially at the end of the day
- Burning or throbbing discomfort
- Restless legs or nighttime cramping
Early treatment can prevent your symptoms from getting worse. You may also experience improved comfort and better long-term vascular health.
Modern varicose vein treatment options
Our team at Memphis Vein Center offers in-office treatments with minimal downtime. Dr. Arcot recommends an approach for you based on your symptoms, vein anatomy, and overall health. Your plan may include:
1. Compression therapy
Often the first step in treatment, compression stockings help improve circulation and reduce symptoms. While they don’t eliminate varicose veins, they can provide relief and support vein health, especially in early stages.
Usually, compression therapy is best for mild symptoms or as part of a broader treatment plan.
2. Sclerotherapy
To eliminate smaller varicose veins or spider veins, our team injects a specialized solution into the problematic veins that causes them to collapse and gradually fade. Sclerotherapy works best for smaller veins and cosmetic concerns, and it requires little to no downtime.
3. Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT)
This minimally invasive procedure uses laser energy to close off a faulty vein. Your body then naturally redirects blood to healthier veins.
Dr. Arcot usually recommends the treatment for larger varicose veins with underlying reflux. Most patients return to normal activity within a day after EVLT.
4. Radiofrequency ablation
Similar to endovenous laser therapy, radiofrequency ablation uses heat generated by radiofrequency energy to seal the affected vein. It’s best for larger veins causing significant symptoms. During recovery, you have minimal discomfort and rapid return to daily life.
5. Microphlebectomy
For prominent, visible varicose veins, Dr. Arcot makes tiny incisions to remove bulging veins near the surface of the skin. Expect a short period of downtime with excellent cosmetic results.
Determining which treatment is right for you
Every patient is different, and Dr. Arcot only recommends a treatment plan following a thorough consultation. He considers:
- The size and location of your veins
- The severity of your symptoms
- Whether underlying venous reflux is present
- Your lifestyle and goals
Your comprehensive exam often includes ultrasound imaging, which allows Dr. Arcot to create a treatment plan specific to you.
Why early varicose vein treatment matters
Ignoring varicose veins can lead to complications over time, including:
- Chronic swelling
- Skin discoloration
- Venous ulcers
- Increased risk of blood clots
Address your veins early to improve how they feel and function every day — as well as how they look.
Our team at Memphis Vein Center doesn’t want you to just live with your discomfort or feel limited by your symptoms. We offer advanced treatments that are effective and often simpler than you expect.
If you’re noticing signs of varicose veins, schedule a consultation today. Call the office in Memphis, Tennessee, or book your appointment online.
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