Relieve Your Varicose Vein Pain and Other Leg Symptoms In Pittsburgh
For many cosmetic concerns, the phrase “out of sight, out of mind” applies. However, this isn’t exactly true for varicose veins. Although many patients seek varicose vein removal for aesthetic reasons, these diseased veins can become a problem if left untreated.
Varicose veins usually come with multiple symptoms that develop and worsen over time. But because symptoms aren’t always present, it can be difficult to know when to worry about varicose veins. The best practice is to treat your vein condition promptly to encourage proper blood circulation and avoid future complications.
At The Vein Institute of Pittsburgh?, we specialize in varicose veins, and offer treatments to remove and relieve them. Our vein specialist is an expert in vein care, and has the knowledge and experience required to perform a variety of treatments.
So, how do you know when to seek treatment? Here are five signs it’s time to seek treatment at our vein clinic near you.
#1 – Varicose Veins Are Impacting Your Everyday Life
Whether it’s emotionally or physically, varicose veins can diminish your quality of life. For most patients, this means limiting your ability to stand, walk, or participate in physical activity. Large, swollen veins might also negatively affect your self image.
When your varicose veins become an inconvenience and start getting in the way of your day-to-day routine, it’s time to visit a vein specialist. Varicose vein removal can help you feel more comfortable and confident.
#2 – You’re Experiencing Pain and Discomfort
Pain, aching, and discomfort, especially after prolonged sitting or standing, are some of the most common symptoms associated with venous insufficiency and varicose veins. They might also indicate that your condition is worsening, and you should be treated as soon as possible. With the right treatment, you won’t need to live with varicose vein pain for long.
#3 – Swelling, Throbbing, and Heaviness
Varicose veins caused by poor circulation can result in swelling and throbbing in the legs, ankles, and feet.
Swelling is a telltale sign of worsening venous insufficiency. Although swelling may start as a nuisance, it can become more noticeable and persistent with time. Swelling will also create heaviness in the legs, limiting your mobility and making it harder to participate in things you enjoy.
#4 – Changes to the Skin
Dysfunctional veins may lead to discoloration, redness, inflammation, and other changes in the skin. Some patients also experience flaking, itching, or a leather-like skin texture. These are all signs of a more serious venous insufficiency, meaning it’s time to treat your varicose veins.
#5 – You’ve Developed Ulcers or Sores
Untreated varicose veins may develop ulcers and sores that are not only unsightly, but are extremely painful. These symptoms are a clear indication that you should receive varicose vein treatment.
Ulcers can take several months to heal, increasing your risk of infection and other serious health issues. That’s why it’s important to address your varicose veins early on by making an appointment with an expert vein specialist in Pittsburgh.
How Can I Treat My Varicose Veins?
Vein care isn’t one-size-fits-all, and every patient is affected by varicose veins differently. That said, it can be hard to know which treatment option is best for you and your vein condition. At our vein clinic near you, we provide two treatment options.
Endovenous laser ablation, or EVLA, is a treatment that uses laser heat energy to seal unhealthy veins. During this procedure, our vein specialist inserts a thin laser fiber into the unhealthy vein using a catheter. The laser emits thermal energy into the vein walls, prompting a reaction and closing the refluxing vein.
Microphlebectomy is an effective alternative to older, more painful vein stripping procedures. It’s a minimally-invasive treatment that involves removing varicose veins through small punctures in the skin. Typically used in conjunction with endovenous laser ablation, microphlebectomy treats your vein condition with no need for stitches or sutures.
Find the Right Varicose Vein Treatment for You at The Vein Institute of Pittsburgh
If you’re experiencing signs of varicose veins, it’s time to get treatment from our trusted vein specialist. At The Vein Institute of Pittsburgh, our minimally-invasive treatments fit each patient’s individual needs and lifestyle.
A vein evaluation will give you an opportunity to meet with our vein specialist and determine if you have venous insufficiency. At this appointment your provider will go over your results and discuss the best treatment options for you.
To treat your varicose veins and be rid of varicose vein pain and other symptoms for good, consider our services at The Vein Institute of Pittsburgh. Learn more about our treatment options online.