Varicose veins are enlarged veins that can be dark blue or purple in color. They are usually visible on the legs and feet and seem to bulge and twist in a corded pattern. People who suffer from varicose veins often have a heavy feeling in their lower extremities or they may suffer from a burning sensation or extreme itching. They appear as people age or with pregnancy, especially for individuals who long periods of time standing. Laser vein treatment may become necessary for people who are bothered by the appearance or plagued by the pain associated with varicose veins.
Although laser vein treatment is effective, it can be costly. Some insurance companies do not cover laser vein treatment, particularly if they deem the procedure to be cosmetic in nature. As a result, it is important to study the insurance policy, call the insurance company, and if it is not covered, try less expensive techniques to lessen the appearance and prevent additional varicose veins from forming. Compression stockings work by squeezing the wearer’s legs to increase blood flow through the legs and relieving the symptoms of varicose veins, and their milder counterpart – spider veins. Other self-care techniques, such as weight loss, exercise, elevating the legs, wearing loose fitting clothing, and changing position from sitting to standing (or vice versa) more frequently, may also help with varicose and spider veins.
For individuals who chose to undergo laser vein treatment, it is a quick and effective technique. In fact, it is 98% effective for the first year and 95% effective for the first five years. In addition, complications are rare. Through laser vein treatment, doctors use lasers to cause smaller veins to disappear without any large incisions or painful recovery periods. For larger veins, other procedures may be recommended.
Before the actual laser is used, doctors will take an ultrasound of the leg; therefore, they can see the diameter and length of each vein. After a topical pain medication is applied, a laser is threaded through a tube that is inserted into the vein. The light waves from the laser will cause the vein to break up in less than one minute. A simple bandage is placed over the place where the tube was inserted into the vein, and healing is quick and painless.
Besides varicose veins, laser vein treatment can be used on spider veins, and some birthmarks and even tattoos. The most important thing is to find a reputable doctor to perform the procedure. Word-of-mouth is usually one of the best ways to find a good doctor that is skilled in laser treatments.
