Varicose Vein Clinic
Varicose veins affect 80 million Americans. Approximately 25 percent
of the adult population has varicose veins and a family history of them. They usually develop between the ages of 20 and 35, with increasing incidence as people age.
This often-painful condition develops when blood pools in the veins, causing them to stretch and twist. Women are affected four times more than
men. UnityPoint Health Vein Clinic offers safe, effective and minimally invasive treatment options such as endovenous therapy and sclerotherapy.
Due to recent advancements, there are new options for people who
suffer from varicose veins. We offer safe, effective
and minimally invasive treatment options.
Call (319) 739-2036 to schedule your appointment today!
PODCAST EPISODE: Varicose Veins
Dr. Richard Kettelkamp, cardiologist, joins Dr. Arnold to discuss causes and treatment of varicose veins.
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, weakened, dilated veins that have
permanently lost their ability to carry blood from the legs back 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 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 reason for varicose veins. Other contributing factors include:
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Medications containing hormones
- Standing for long periods of time
- Traumatic leg injury or injuries
Call (319) 739-2036 to schedule your appointment today!
How To Treat Varicose Veins
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, and 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-size 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, causing the vein react 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, healthier veins.
Why Consider These Options?
- Results can be immediate and have a high success rate.
- Patients often experience significant relief from discomfort such as aches, heaviness and pain.
- It allows for more efficient blood circulation.
- Patients report improved self-image and confidence in appearance.
- Treatments are minimally invasive, quick and easy.
- You can return to your daily activities immediately.
Call (319) 739-2036 to schedule your appointment today!