Spring is the time to treat Varicose Veins

With the temperatures rising and the winter days behind us, it's time to change your wardrobe from trousers and choose to wear shorts and sundresses. However for those affected by varicose veins the decision to bare their legs can be a little harder. Especially for women who maybe self conscious of the appearance of veins.

Varicose veins affect up to 50% of the population, with a small percentage suffering from more advanced venous disease. Varicose and spider veins appear on the legs, ankles and feet they can be caused by a variety of conditions. Most commonly they are hereditary but lifestyle being overweight or conversely exercise, standing or sitting for long periods of time can also contribute to them appearing earlier, as can hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause. If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to leg ulcers and other serious problems such as swollen legs, pain and an increased risk of blood clots.

Spring is a great time to seek treatment for varicose veins as there is plenty of recovery time before the summer months set in. Also it is more comfortable to wear compression stockings when the weather is a bit milder although our vein institute is still very busy in the summer.

Treatment usually consists of EndoVenous Laser Therapy and/or Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy, depending on the severity of the disease, which is determined through an ultrasound during the initial consultation. Patients that undergo varicose vein treatment can see results within weeks of the procedure and are getting back to their normal, active lifestyle straightaway.