Sunday, April 12, 2009

Varicose veins & treatments

What types of treatment are available for varicose veins?

In the last 15 years, many different treatments for varicose veins have been developed. In the past, the only two treatments were available for varicose veins- removal of the vein with surgery or wearing of compressive stockings. Today, many fancy treatments have been developed to treat various degrees of varicose veins- mind you varicose vein treatment is a lucrative business and many health care professionals are doing these procedures even when patients have minimal symptoms. The best treatment for the individual with varicose veins depends on severity, location and physician experience.

Facts: there is no doubt that varicose veins are unattractive and sometimes may cause symptoms. However, not all varicose veins need surgery.

The following treatments for varicose veins are available today.

Compression stockings


Despite 40 years of advanced research on surgical methods to treat varicose veins, compression stockings are probably the best treatment. There are a variety of compression stockings available today. When worn on a regular basis they prevent worsening of varicose veins and also reduce symptoms. Compression garments do not cure varicose veins but prevent them from getting worse. Stockings also improve symptoms and prevent development of blood clots.

The only downside to stocking is that they must be worn on a daily basis. One can remove them just before bedtime. Compression stockings are ideal for the pregnant female, individuals who are bed ridden, those who have had a stroke, and those who do not want surgery. Compression stockings also preserve the vein just in case it is needed for open-heart surgery in future.

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