5 Non-Surgical Treatments For Varicose Veins

Varicose veins can be an annoying problem. They are the bulging, squiggly veins that usually appear on your legs, and they can cause you to be uncomfortable physically and even emotionally. If you have been searching "How can I get rid of varicose veins without surgery?" to get rid of varicose veins without surgery, you are certainly not alone. The fantastic news is that you do not have to get surgery to treat varicose veins. There are many safe and effective non-surgical treatments available today that can help alleviate the discomfort from varicose veins and even improve them or, in some cases, completely take them away. Whether your main concern is pain, swelling, or you just want to feel more confident in shorts, there is something you can try. Let's go over five simple treatments to get you started.

1. Compression Stockings

Don't let the fancy name scare you. Sclerotherapy is not that complicated. A doctor injects a special solution directly into the varicosities, and then the veins collapse and fade away. It's a quick procedure; you won't have to worry about surgery or downtime. You may need a couple of treatments; nevertheless, many people get great results.

2. Sclerotherapy

If you don't like needles, this might be a good option for you. Laser treatment involves a light that closes off a small varicosity or spider vein. It is done on the surface of the skin and feels like a rubber band snap. Once again, there is no cutting, and it is very quick. You may have more than one treatment, but most people can tolerate it.

3. Laser Therapy

If needles aren't your thing, this one may be right up your alley. Laser treatment uses light to close off small varicose veins or spider veins. It's done right on the surface of the skin, and it feels more like a rubber band stretched and snapped. And there is no cutting, and the treatment is quick. You may need more than one session, but overall, people seem to tolerate this procedure well.

4. Radiofrequency Ablation

Okay, this one sounds super high-tech, because it kind of is! Radiofrequency ablation involves placing a catheter into the vein (tiny) and sending out heat (radio waves), causing the vein to close. Your body will just reroute the blood into healthier veins. It is done with local anesthetic and has a short recovery time.

5. Lifestyle Changes

And yes, small changes in your daily routine can also really make a difference. Exercise, elevating your legs, eating less salt, and trying to avoid long periods of sitting or standing can all be helpful in reducing symptoms and avoiding new veins from showing up. Think of these changes as your long-term maintenance plan.

Is It Worth Getting Varicose Veins Removed?

Actually, it depends. If your veins are painful, swollen, or causing skin changes, or you just don't like the way they look, the treatment could be worth it. Non-surgical treatments are often safe and fast and have very little downtime. They also may prevent complications later on.

What Doctor Treats Varicose Veins?

The type of specialist that you would use is called a vascular doctor or vein specialist. Some dermatologists do offer treatments as well. You would find them at either a vein treatment clinic or a vein treatment center. They will evaluate your veins with an ultrasound and prescribe the best treatment plan that is non-surgical (or surgical, if warranted).