And How to Remove Your Painful Varicose Veins in Pittsburgh
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with varicose veins, you might be wondering what exactly they are and how to treat them. And while the Internet is a great source of information, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish fact from falsehoods. Fortunately, we can help.
At The Vein Institute of Pittsburgh™, we specialize in treating these painful, unsightly, and uncomfortable veins using a variety of methods. Our experts have mastered everything there is to know about varicose veins and can help you understand the treatment process to remove your painful, unsightly veins.
As such, we’re uniquely prepared to dispel common misconceptions about varicose vein treatment that you may have come across online or heard through word of mouth. Keep reading to learn how you can remove yours, thanks to our varicose vein treatments near you.
Myth #1 – Varicose Veins Are Untreatable
You have options when it comes to varicose vein treatments. In fact, you can start improving your varicose vein symptoms today just by changing your habits. However, the most common and effective way to treat varicose veins is by using minimally invasive treatments.
Varicose vein treatment has developed and advanced greatly within the last decade, now offering minimally invasive treatments that are quick, less painful, and require very little downtime. Each procedure uses a different method to improve venous insufficiency. Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), and microphlebectomy, and sometimes sclerotherapy are great options that not only deliver relief, but also outstanding results.
Myth #2 – Spider Veins and Varicose Veins Are the Same Thing
Although spider veins and varicose veins have similarities, they are two different conditions that are treated differently. Varicose veins are bulging, swollen blood vessels that twist underneath the skin. Spider veins are smaller, dilated blood vessels that appear as purple, blue, or red lines beneath the skin.
Another difference between them is that varicose veins are usually painful, while spider veins are not.
Myth #3 – Only Older Women Can Get Varicose Vein Treatment
Anyone can experience venous insufficiency and varicose veins. Although they’re more commonly found in women, nearly 20 percent of adults will be diagnosed with varicose veins at some point in their life.
Venous insufficiency is usually developed later in life, but younger patients also can be affected by varicose veins for a number of reasons, such as family history, prolonged sitting or standing, an unhealthy lifestyle, other medical conditions, and more.
Myth #4 – Varicose Vein Treatment is Painful
In the past, the only way to treat varicose veins was with a painful procedure called vein-stripping. This procedure required invasive surgery to completely remove the insufficient vein. Vein-stripping patients needed general anesthesia and underwent a long, painful recovery.
Varicose vein treatment options have evolved to be minimally-invasive and even more effective. An experienced provider will discuss your treatment options with you during your consultation. Treatments are completed under local anesthesia to ensure patients experience little to no discomfort.
Myth #5 – Varicose Veins Don’t Have to Be Treated
Varicose veins can be an indication of a bigger, more serious medical concern and shouldn’t be neglected. If varicose veins are ignored, symptoms may worsen over time.
In fact, you should seek treatment for varicose veins as soon as possible after they appear. If you’ve noticed early symptoms of venous insufficiency – such as tired, heavy, or achy legs – seek out a professional evaluation and create a plan for varicose vein treatment.
What Are the Different Varicose Vein Treatments?
As we previously mentioned, there isn’t just one way to effectively treat varicose veins. Depending on your specific needs and personal preferences, one treatment could be more beneficial than another. At The Vein Institute of Pittsburgh, we offer three varicose vein treatments near you:
- Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
Using heat to seal insufficient veins, endovenous laser ablation entails inserting a thin laser fiber into the vein to emit a thermal energy to the surrounding vein walls. For a comfortable experience, this procedure is completed under local anesthesia. Endovenous laser ablation has minimal side effects and downtime for recovery. - Microphlebectomy
Performed under local anesthesia, microphlebectomy treats the insufficient vein through small punctures in the skin. It’s commonly used alongside endovenous laser ablation to completely remove the vein. This varicose vein treatment does not require any stitches or sutures. - Sclerotherapy
Varicose vein sclerotherapy uses an injectable solution to treat insufficient veins. In addition to varicose veins, this procedure is also commonly used to remove spider veins. Sclerotherapy uses sclerosant to irritate and inflame the varicose vein. This inflammation prompts the vein to close up and remove itself from circulation. Over time, the body naturally absorbs the vein. This procedure has minimal side effects and downtime, making for a quick recovery.
Live Pain-Free with Varicose Vein Treatment at The Vein Institute of Pittsburgh!
At The Vein Institute of Pittsburgh, we’re proud to offer minimally invasive varicose vein treatments near you using the latest advancements in vein care. Remove your painful and unsightly veins using endovenous laser ablation, microphlebectomy, or varicose vein sclerotherapy.
To find out which varicose vein treatment is right for you, please call to schedule an appointment. When you schedule an evaluation with one of our knowledgeable medical providers, we’ll carefully examine your varicose veins and develop a treatment plan that best aligns with your specific needs.
Schedule an appointment by calling us at (724) 934-8346 or sending us a message online. We look forward to hearing from you soon!