Wondering How to Get Rid of Varicose Veins? The Vein Institute of Pittsburgh Can Help!
Varicose veins are swollen and enlarged veins found on the legs. Caused by weak or damaged vein walls and valves, varicose veins are not only unsightly, but also extremely painful and can even lead to larger health complications if left untreated.
The Society of Interventional Radiology reports that 25% of all people have varicose veins. If you’re one such individual, you should seek help sooner rather than later. With varicose vein treatment, you can feel good about how you look and live a happier, healthier life.
At the Vein Institute of Pittsburgh™, we’re passionate about helping people put the discomfort of varicose veins behind them. Although varicose vein treatments once involved general anesthesia, an overnight hospital stay, and a long and unpleasant recovery process, that’s no longer the case. Medical advancements have made our varicose vein treatments in Pittsburgh minimally invasive and more effective, resulting in fewer side effects and less downtime.
Keep reading to learn how you can get rid of your varicose veins for good when you rely on the knowledgeable and experienced professionals at the Vein Institute of Pittsburgh.
How Do I Know If I Need Varicose Vein Treatment in Pittsburgh?
Varicose veins arise from a larger medical issue known as venous insufficiency. Generally, this condition occurs in older adults, but it can still affect younger patients, particularly if they have a family history of venous disease or unhealthy and sedentary lifestyle habits.
Our venous system returns blood to the heart from all the organs of the body, meaning blood in our lower extremities has to travel upward – against the force of gravity. To accomplish this, our veins use a system of one-way valves to prevent backflow.
These valves can begin to fail over time, however, and blood begins pooling in the veins in the leg. This marks the onset of venous insufficiency and should be treated before things get out of hand and patients experience more serious complications.
How do you know if you have venous insufficiency? Varicose veins are characterized by their winding, twisting, and bulging appearance and are often bluish-green in color. Other symptoms of varicose veins and venous insufficiency include:
- Throbbing pain
- Alleviated pain when legs are elevated
- Burning sensation
- Heaviness in the legs
- Restless legs
- Swelling of surface veins
- Bruising and discoloration
- Leg ulcers
If you have any symptoms of venous insufficiency as well as visible varicose veins, it’s a good idea to reach out to our treatment center for a consultation. Our medical providers will perform an ultrasound and conduct a physical evaluation to determine whether you need varicose vein treatment in Pittsburgh.
Types of Varicose Vein Treatments
At the Vein Institute of Pittsburgh, we offer two varicose vein treatments to patients: endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) and microphlebectomy. These procedures are among the least invasive vein therapies and result in an easier recovery period compared to traditional varicose vein treatments.
Following your in-person diagnosis, our team will be able to determine the best treatment approach for your needs. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to varicose veins, and many times, multiple procedures are needed for optimal results.
Here’s what you can expect from EVLA and microphlebectomy varicose vein treatments in Pittsburgh:
- Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA): EVLA uses lasers to heat and seal insufficient veins. Sometimes referred to as endovenous laser treatment (EVLT), the process begins with a thin laser fiber inserted into the problem vein through a catheter. The fiber is slowly pulled back, emitting thermal energy to the surrounding vein walls. Local anesthesia ensures patients remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Microphlebectomy: Microphlebectomy is the modern alternative to vein stripping procedures of day’s past. Also known as ambulatory phlebectomy, the procedure involves the removal of varicose veins from the leg through small punctures in the skin. Microphlebectomy is often combined with EVLA treatments and is highly effective because insufficient veins are removed in their entirety. What’s more, a microphlebectomy can be performed with local anesthesia and doesn’t require stitches or sutures.
Book an Appointment Today for Varicose Vein Treatment in Pittsburgh
Are you ready to say goodbye to being self-conscious about your legs and experiencing uncomfortable varicose vein symptoms? Contact the Vein Institute of Pittsburgh today to schedule an appointment and discuss your treatment options.
Dr. Terrance Krysinski and his team deeply care about helping relieve any pain you have and improving your overall quality of life. We listen to your concerns, evaluate your unique needs, and develop a treatment plan tailored to you.
Request a consultation by calling our Warrendale location at (724) 934-VEIN (8346) or our Robinson office at (412) 809-VEIN (8346).