What can I do About Painful Varicose Veins?

There are a few ways to deal with painful varicose veins. Often, however, surgery is the recommended treatment. For example, you may opt for vein stripping, laser surgery, endoscopic vein surgery, or one of several other surgical methods of getting rid of painful varicose veins. You may also consider compression stockings and self-help methods, such as becoming less sedentary and losing weight, to reduce painful symptoms and prevent your condition from worsening. When pain is persistent or moderate to severe, however, surgery is typically the treatment of choice.

If you are dealing with minor discomfort or pain from varicose veins, you may consider using compression stockings to treat it. These stockings are designed to be worn all day and work by compressing your legs steadily. This steady compression helps to improve your circulation and reduce discomfort. You may be able to find these stocking over-the-counter at a pharmacy, but they are available by prescription as well.

You may also try self-help methods of dealing with painful varicose veins. For example, you may move around more, as a sedentary lifestyle contributes to varicose veins. Exercising, avoiding sitting for long periods of time, and keeping your legs elevated while sitting may help. If you are overweight, losing weight may also be a part of your treatment plan. Additionally, avoiding tight clothing may help to make varicose veins less painful and even prevent them.

When compression stockings and self-help methods fail, doctors often recommend surgery to treat painful varicose veins. One type of surgery is called vein stripping and involves making a small incision through which a vein is removed. Endoscopic surgery is performed using a small camera that is inserted into the body, and the affected veins are removed through small cuts in the leg. Laser surgery is also effective for varicose veins, but uses bursts of light to close them off and does not require cutting. The type of surgery that is best may depend on the specifics of your case, your overall health, and your preferences.

It is important to note that treatments for painful varicose veins may not be permanent. Sometimes, the condition returns. As such, you may be wary of treatments that are advertised as permanent. Additionally, you may do well to discuss the potential for a recurrence with your doctor, consider whether the costs of surgery are worth it, and compare the risks of surgery versus the benefits before making your decision.