Varicose Veins
WHAT ARE THEY?
Varicose veins are dilated and twisted veins that appear in the lower limbs due to the malfunction of the valves that regulate blood flow. This leads to increased venous pressure and weakening of the venous wall, causing abnormal dilation of the veins over time.
Varicose veins are a health problem affecting around one quarter of the Portuguese population, mainly women.
Due to their progressive nature and because they are often disabling for daily activities due to their associated symptoms, varicose veins should be treated.
DIAGNOSIS:
Clinical diagnosis is simple and the complementary diagnostic exams required are non-invasive and can be performed during the consultation.
TREATMENT
Not all cases require surgery. Treatment for varicose veins can be conservative or non-conservative, so a medical evaluation is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment.
Treatment for varicose veins helps improve symptoms (pain, numbness, itching, fatigue, swelling among others), prevents progression to more severe cases and can improve self-esteem when performed for aesthetic reasons.
COMPLICATIONS OF VARICOSE VEINS:
- Phlebitis (inflammation of the vein)
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Venous ulcer
- Hemorrhage
TREATMENT:
At Clínica Luso Espanhola we offer treatment for varicose veins through Sclerotherapy, an effective and minimally invasive procedure with rapid recovery that aims to eliminate these unwanted veins. Sclerotherapy consists of injecting a sclerosing solution directly into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and eventually disappear.
Sclerotherapy is a safe procedure with few complications. However, in more severe cases it may be necessary to resort to a more invasive treatment such as surgical correction. For this reason, a prior medical evaluation is essential.
HOW MANY SESSIONS ARE NECESSARY?
The number of sessions required varies depending on the number of veins to be treated, their size and severity. In most cases, varicose veins are eliminated in 2 or 3 sessions.
CARE AFTER TREATMENT:
Most people return to their daily activities immediately. It is important to walk and move the legs (to avoid the formation of blood clots) and avoid excessive physical exercise.
After the procedure, the patient should remain lying down at rest for 15 to 20 minutes.
The use of compression stockings is recommended and sun exposure on the treated areas should be avoided to ensure a quick and proper recovery and to prevent possible complications.