Varicose Veins – What They Are and How They’re Treated

Varicose veins are an extremely common problem, with about 40% of all adults being affected by them. Varicose veins most commonly appear on the legs, causing bulky, uncomfortable and often painful lumps. Long term, they can cause serious health complications such as blood clots and vein ulcers, which at their most extreme can cause death or require amputation. Varicose veins are caused by many factors; in general they are hereditary, so if there is a family history of them, you are much more likely to be affected by them. There also appears to be a link between European ancestry and varicose veins. Women are also much more at risk than men, particularly during pregnancy. Spider veins are similarly linked to varicose veins, however are smaller and less serious.

Varicose veins can surface at any time, however several factors contribute. Lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise make a large difference, with a sedentary lifestyle and high fat diet being major causes. Sun exposure can cause spider veins in particular, and as people age, varicose vein problems are more likely due to weakening vein walls.

Varicose veins serve no purpose, as new, healthy veins have developed underneath them. Varicose and spider veins can be treated in many ways, and it is a good idea to start at a vein clinic or doctor. The earlier they are treated, the less problems there are likely to be, and vein removal can be a minor, quick and simple procedure that can increase your quality of life as well as drastically reduce risks to health. Spider vein removal is similar, however they can often be associated with deeper vein problems, so much be investigated thoroughly.

There a lot you can do for vein treatment in Sydney. Vein removal and spider vein removal are easily accessible, through treatments ranging from more severe vein stripping – removal of the veins, or non surgical methods such as laser and sclerotherapy. These can be expensive, however are virtually painless and can be done on the same day under local or no anesthetic. Recovery is simple, and often involves little more than follow up appointments and wearing compression garments for two weeks following treatments to ensure veins heal properly and blood clots do not form.