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Varicose veins are unsightly and raised and look like slight bumps. They are caused by leaky valves under the surface of the skin. There is less muscle and bone to support these veins, therefore they tend to have weaker walls which can ‘balloon out’. There are some myths associated with varicose veins such as only women are affected in their old age and that they can only be cured with surgery. There are effective, non-surgical treatments and prevention methods for men and women of all ages.

It’s not all in vein

When you first discover varicose veins, it’s not recommended that you let them be, in the hope that they’ll disappear on their own. You should consult your doctor who can then refer you to a dermatologic or vascular surgeon, if necessary.

However, before considering surgery, you can begin by wearing compression stockings. Your doctor should also perform an ultrasound or duplex scan to make sure that you don’t suffer from any circulatory diseases.

Sclerotherapy is often used to treat varicose veins. You can also elect to use laser treatment, which may require six sessions of 15 to 20 minutes each.

There are many non-surgical and non-medical, natural treatments available too. Most are effective in treating milder cases of varicose veins and include aromatherapy, hydrotherapy, acupuncture, massage, acupressure and home remedies for treating varicose veins.

Under the knife

The surgical methods available to you include vein stripping and ambulatory phlebectomy. These are effective and you should discuss these options in depth with your surgeon.

It is also important to incorporate a regular exercise regime into your lifestyle, together with a healthy diet that includes vitamins and other essential minerals and nutrients. After you’ve undergone treatment, these habits will help prevent a recurrence of varicose veins.

Tags: medicine