Vein Clinic
Varicose veins affect 80 million Americans. Approximately 25 percent
of the adult population has varicose veins and a family history of them.
This often painful condition develops when blood pools in the veins,
stretching and twisting them. Women are affected four times more than
men.
Varicose veins usually develop between the ages of 20-35 and increase
with age. Those who are overweight have a greater tendency to develop
varicose veins and prolonged standing, sitting, leg crossing and long
hot showers are other aggravating factors.
Due to recent advancements, there are new options for people who
suffer from varicose veins. We offer safe, effective
and minimally invasive treatment options.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, weakened, dilated veins that have
permanently lost their ability to carry blood from the legs back up to
the heart against the force of gravity. As the blood falls back down the
leg and pools, the veins overfill giving them their typical unsightly
bulging appearance.
Varicose veins cause tired, heavy, aching, throbbing, swollen legs,
which are typically worse at the end of the day. Nighttime leg cramps
and leg restlessness are also common problems caused by varicose veins.
These symptoms will go away when treated. If left untreated, varicose
veins may worsen and lead to the formation of blood clots (thrombosis),
inflammation of the vein (phlebitis) and inflammation of the skin
(dermatitis).
What causes varicose veins?
Heredity is the number one contributing factor causing varicose veins. Other contributing factors include:
- pregnancy
- obesity
- hormone-containing medications
- standing for long periods
- traumatic leg injury or injuries
How can varicose veins be treated?
The UnityPoint Health Vein Clinic offers a comprehensive, non-surgical approach which includes two treatment
options; sclerotherapy and endovenous laser treatment (EVLT). Neither
option requires anesthesia, hospitalization or surgery. These procedures
are performed our office. You can be back on your feet resuming normal
activities the same or next day.
Sclerotherapy
During sclerotherapy, your doctor injects a chemical into your
varicose vein. The chemical irritates and scars the vein from the inside
out so your abnormal vein can no longer fill with blood. Circulation is
carried out through your healthy veins located deeper within the body,
so the outward appearance and sometimes pain associated with the
varicose veins is significantly reduced. Your body will eventually
absorb the vein that received the injection. Small to medium sized
varicose veins respond best to this procedure.
Laser Treatment
Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) is another way to treat varicose
veins, including larger sized veins. Your doctor inserts a tiny fiber
into a varicose vein through a catheter. A laser light is emitted
through the fiber. As the fiber is pulled back through the vein, it
delivers just the right amount of light. The targeted tissue reacts with
the light energy, causing the vein to close and seal shut. The veins
that are closed are superficial veins that handle less than five percent
of the body's blood flow. The blood is automatically routed to other,
healthy veins.
Why consider these options?
- Results can be immediate and have a high success rate.
- Significant relief from discomfort such as aches, heaviness and pain
- More efficient blood circulation
- An improved body image and confidence in one's appearance
- A minimally invasive, quick and easy treatment option
- You can return to your daily activities immediately