- Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding.
- Stop smoking.
- Take certain medications or adjust your current medications.
What is the best treatment for varicose veins and spider veins?
Injection of a large vein with a foam solution is also a possible treatment to close a vein and seal it. Laser treatment. Doctors are using new technology in laser treatments to close off smaller varicose veins and spider veins.
What should I do if I have a vein blockage?
Take an anticoagulant medication if your doctor prescribes one. If your doctor diagnoses you with a vein blockage that is not an immediate emergency, they may prescribe you a combination of medication and lifestyle changes, rather than more serious medical or surgical interventions.
How to get plump veins?
Hydration is the key to plump veins. Being well-hydrated increases the body’s blood volume. With the increased blood flow, veins are less likely to collapse when punctured.
How can I increase blood flow to my veins?
This causes the muscle to harden and swell, pushing the veins closer to the surface. The other hint is to let gravity do the work. I often place my forearm parallel to the floor when I’m waiting for the needle stick. However, several resources suggest dangling the arm to increase blood flow into the forearm.
How do you prepare for vein surgery?
Pre-Operative Instructions (for Laser & Radiofrequency Treatments)Drink plenty of water.If you were prescribed sedative medication, please take it 1 hour before your procedure.If you've taken a sedative prior to your procedure make sure you have someone available to drive you to and from your appointment.More items...
What do you wear to a vein clinic?
Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing You will need to remove clothing in the area to be treated and you may experience some discomfort after the procedure, so it's best to wear something loose and comfortable.
What should I do before laser vein treatment?
When you start preparing for the treatment of veins via laser, you'll want to make sure you drink plenty of water and are well hydrated. Depending on the number and size of veins to be treated, as well as their location, you may be prescribed a sedative medication.
How long does a vein procedure take?
Vein stripping usually takes about 1 to 1 1/2 hours. You may receive either: General anesthesia, in which you will be asleep and unable to feel pain.
What happens at first vein specialist appointment?
During your first appointment with a vein specialist, you'll spend some time talking about your medical history and current symptoms. Vein disease symptoms may not be only cosmetic, so be sure to tell your vein specialist about any leg swelling, pain, heaviness, tingling or fatigue you've experienced.
Can I eat before varicose vein surgery?
Yes. In fact, we recommend that you have a small breakfast or light lunch before your procedure. Some patients may choose to take Valium, an oral sedative to reduce tension and anxiety (will be given at the time of the procedure), and having breakfast or lunch can help settle the stomach.
How painful is varicose vein surgery?
As with any traditional surgery or minimally invasive procedure, pain is possible. However, with advances in medical technology, leg discomfort after varicose vein surgery should be minimal and last only a short time.
How long will I need off work after varicose vein surgery?
Keep your legs elevated to promote healing and give your vasculature time to reestablish blood flow. Most people need just two weeks off after vein surgery. If your job requires a lot of sitting or standing (e.g. driving trucks), then you may need 4-6 weeks off to ensure full recovery.
How long will my leg hurt after vein surgery?
Your Recovery Your leg may feel stiff or sore for the first 1 to 2 weeks. Your doctor will give you pain medicine for this. You can expect your leg to be very bruised at first. This is a normal part of recovery and may last 2 to 3 weeks.
Do they put you to sleep for vein ablation?
These procedures required general anesthesia, but they are almost never necessary today. In most cases of ablation, we use a combination of a local anesthetic to numb the topical area. Tumescent IV sedation will then be used down the length of the vein that is being closed off or removed.
How do you sleep after varicose vein surgery?
Since your veins are still recovering, you should avoid adding undo pressure by elevating the legs during sleep. Have your spouse or partner place a couple of pillows under your legs, just below the knee joint. If you wake during the night, focus on ensuring that your legs remain elevated.
Can you walk after varicose vein surgery?
Walking After Varicose Vein Surgery The good news is, walking is actually recommended after varicose vein surgery. In fact, regular walking is an important part of your healing process. Walking after surgery helps prevent clots from forming in your legs, and it also promotes good circulation in the area.
Loose clothing
Prefer to wear loose clothing on the day of the treatment. You will need to wear compression stockings after the treatment and tight clothing over the compression stockings will be uncomfortable. Avoid wearing anything tight on your legs (aside from any compression stockings recommended by your doctor) on the way home.
Compression socks or stockings
After the treatment you will likely have some bruising, possibly a bit of pain and swelling. This will only last a few days and may be alleviated with the help of compression socks. You will get a prescription for the stockings at the consultation, so wear them prior to the treatment to break them in.
Phone for music (and headphones, too)
As mentioned above, your vein treatment is nothing to be afraid of, but it is nice to have something to distract you while it’s happening. This will help to calm your nerves, which in turn will make things easier for the doctor, and up the chances that your treatment will go smoothly.
What to do before a varicose vein appointment?
What you can do in the meantime. Even before your appointment, you can begin self-care. Try not to stand or sit in one position for a long time, elevate your legs when you're seated, and avoid uncomfortable footwear and tight socks or hosiery. By Mayo Clinic Staff. Varicose veins care at Mayo Clinic.
What is the treatment for varicose veins?
If you don't respond to self-care or compression stockings, or if your condition is more severe, your doctor may suggest one of these varicose vein treatments: Sclerotherapy. In this procedure, your doctor injects small- and medium-sized varicose veins with a solution or foam that scars and closes those veins.
What is the procedure to remove varicose veins?
Endoscopic vein surgery. You might need this operation only in an advanced case involving leg ulcers if other techniques fail. Your surgeon uses a thin video camera inserted in your leg to visualize and close varicose veins and then removes the veins through small incisions.
How to prevent varicose veins from getting worse?
Self-care — such as exercising, losing weight, not wearing tight clothes, elevating your legs, and avoiding long periods of standing or sitting — can ease pain and prevent varicose veins from getting worse.
How to close spider veins?
Laser treatment. Doctors are using new technology in laser treatments to close off smaller varicose veins and spider veins. Laser treatment works by sending strong bursts of light onto the vein, which makes the vein slowly fade and disappear. No incisions or needles are used.
How to diagnose varicose veins?
Diagnosis. To diagnose varicose veins, your doctor will do a physical exam, including looking at your legs while you're standing to check for swelling. Your doctor may also ask you to describe any pain and aching in your legs. You also may need an ultrasound test to see if the valves in your veins are functioning normally or if there's any evidence ...
How to improve circulation in legs?
To improve the circulation in your legs, take several short breaks daily to elevate your legs above the level of your heart. For example, lie down with your legs resting on three or four pillows. Avoid long periods of sitting or standing. Make a point of changing your position frequently to encourage blood flow.
How to get veins to plump up?
Hydration. Hydration is the key to plump veins. Being well-hydrated increases the body’s blood volume. With the increased blood flow, veins are less likely to collapse when punctured. Because of my kidney issues, I usually drink at least 80 ounces of water each day.
How to get blood pressure to go up?
One is to do quick, vigorous exercise beforehand to increase arterial blood pressure. This causes the muscle to harden and swell, pushing the veins closer to the surface. The other hint is to let gravity do the work. I often place my forearm parallel to the floor when I’m waiting for the needle stick.
Can you drink coconut water before an infusion?
Unfortunately, coconut water is extremely high in potassium, which harms my kidney function, so I can’t drink it.
What is the best way to remove varicose veins?
2. Understand the type of surgery you're having. The traditional surgery for very severe varicose veins is vein stripping and ligation. Ambulatory phlebectomy is another technique to remove varicose veins.
How to prevent varicose veins after leg surgery?
You will likely wear a compression stocking on your other leg after surgery. These tight stockings help keep blood flowing in your legs. This helps prevent varicose veins from forming again. Other simple steps can help prevent new problems. Once your doctor clears it, regular exercise will help build stronger muscles in your legs and improve blood flow. Lose weight if you are overweight. Avoid standing up for long periods without a break. When you sit, keep both feet flat on the floor.
How to get rid of thick veins on legs?
Vein surgery is one way to deal with thick, tangled varicose veins on your legs. Many procedures can ease the pain and appearance of these veins. Sometimes, though, the best solution is surgery to remove them. When that's what the doctor orders, follow these steps to prepare in advance.
How long does it take for a varicose vein to heal?
It usually takes one to four weeks to heal after varicose vein surgery. During that time, you'll probably need to avoid or limit many of your usual activities. Don't lift anything heavy or do any vigorous exercise for at least two weeks. However, everyone heals differently.
How to get blood flowing in legs?
Pump your ankles about three to four times. You should do this about every 10 minutes. Once each hour, walk around for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. You can start as soon as you get home from the hospital. This helps reduce your risk for a blood clot. Do a little more exercise every day as you feel stronger.
How to get home safely after a syringe?
Get home safely after surgery. You'll want to protect your legs. Sit in the back seat of the car for the ride home after your surgery. Sit sideways so you can stretch out your legs across the seat. Even if you feel steady, have the person who drove you home help you get out of the car and into your home.
What to do before surgery?
Before the surgery, your doctor will go over your medical history and give you a physical exam. You may have a few tests to make sure you're healthy enough for surgery. Your doctor should give you a list of things to do to get ready for the procedure. Be sure to look it over while still at your doctor's office.
How to treat a vein blockage?
1. Take an anticoagulant medication if your doctor prescribes one. If your doctor diagnoses you with a vein blockage that is not an immediate emergency, they may prescribe you a combination of medication and lifestyle changes, rather than more serious medical or surgical interventions.
What to do if you have a vein blockage in your leg?
If you have vein blockages in your legs, your doctor may recommend a series of leg movements and stretches to do regularly—such as ankle rotations, pedal pumps, heel-toe rocks, knee-ups, and calf massages. Getting up and moving around regularly is good for your health whether you have blocked veins or not.
What is a DVT?
If, however, you are diagnosed with DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blockage of one of the large veins in your legs or elsewhere, you must get immediate medical care and follow your doctor’s treatment plan closely. Steps.
What is the best medication for blood clots?
Common anticoagulant medications include enoxaparin (Lovenox), warfarin (Coumadin), and heparin.
Where can vein blockage occur?
Vein blockages can occur anywhere in the body, but your legs are one of the most common locations. If you have a lower body vein blockage—and possibly if your blockage is elsewhere—your doctor may tell you to wear prescription compression stockings and to keep your feet elevated while lying down.
What supplements can help reduce homocysteine?
Taking a prescribed daily dosage of vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folic acid may help reduce your homocysteine level. Ginkgo biloba supplements may help thin your blood, but should only be taken with your doctor’s recommendation. ...
How to prevent blood clots on plane?
If you’re on a long plane flight, get up once an hour and move around the cabin to prevent clots.
How to treat DVT?
DVT is most commonly treated with anticoagulants, also called blood thinners. These drugs don't break up existing blood clots, but they can prevent clots from getting bigger and reduce your risk of developing more clots. Blood thinners may be taken by mouth or given by IV or an injection under the skin.
How to prevent blood clots in legs?
If you've been on bed rest because of surgery or other factors, the sooner you get moving, the lower the chance that blood clots will develop. Wear compression stockings . Wear these to help prevent blood clots in the legs if your doctor recommends them.
What blood thinners are used for DVT?
The most commonly used injectable blood thinners for DVT are enoxaparin (Lovenox) and fondaparinux (Arixtra). After taking an injectable blood thinner for a few days, your doctor may switch you to a pill. Examples of blood thinners that you swallow include warfarin (Jantoven) and dabigatran (Pradaxa).
What to do if you can't take medicine to thin your blood?
If you can't take medicines to thin your blood, you might have a filter inserted into a large vein — the vena cava — in your abdomen. A vena cava filter prevents clots that break loose from lodging in your lungs. Compression stockings. These special knee socks reduce the chances that your blood will pool and clot.
What is the procedure to check for clots in the foot?
The test is invasive, so it's rarely performed. Other tests, such as ultrasound, often are done first. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.
How to diagnose DVT?
Diagnosis. To diagnose DVT, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms. You'll also have a physical exam so that your doctor can check for areas of swelling, tenderness or changes in skin color. The tests you have depend on whether your doctor thinks you are at a low or a high risk of DVT. Tests used to diagnose or rule out a blood clot include: ...
What is the best test for DVT?
Duplex ultrasound. This noninvasive test uses sound waves to create pictures of how blood flows through your veins. It's the standard test for diagnosing DVT. For the test, a technician gently moves a small hand-held device (transducer) on your skin over the body area being studied.
How long does it take for a vein to lighten?
Throughout the healing process this will lighten, though it can take several months depending on the size of the vein. Some veins require multiple treatments to completely disappear.
What to wear after visual sclerotherapy?
Following the injections that occur during visual sclerotherapy, a compression stocking needs to be worn to help keep the vein closed. Otherwise, normal daily activities can commence immediately after treatment.
How long does it take for a vein to close after laser ablation?
As the treated vein closes, it can cause an inflammatory reaction. This can occur within one week after laser or radiofrequency ablation treatment, or three-to-six weeks after foam sclerotherapy treatments.
How long does it take for bruising to go away after a vein is removed?
The bruising may be extensive in the thigh, but typically resolves in one-to-two weeks.
How long after phlebectomy can I exercise?
We recommend waiting seven-to-ten days before resuming a routine exercise such as running, weight lifting, or cycling, for example.
Can a thrombectomy be performed with local anesthesia?
Dependent upon degree of discomfort, there's also the possibility of having a thrombectomy performed to produce immediate relief. This would require local anesthesia of the area and a stab puncture in the skin to express and squeeze out the trapped blood.
Is it normal to feel tightness in a vein?
Some patients continue to feel a “ tight” sensation in the treated vein, which is still normal at this point in the healing process, though it should start to gradually resolve. Residual knots/trapped blood areas are possible, but you may notice the tenderness you initially felt in the area is starting to decrease.
Diagnosis
- Your health care provider will do a physical exam, including looking at your legs while you're standing to check for swelling. Your provider might also ask you to describe pain and aching in your legs.
Treatment
- Treatment for varicose veins may include self-care measures, compression stockings, and surgeries or procedures. Procedures to treat varicose veins are often done as an outpatient procedure, which means you usually go home on the same day. Ask your insurer if varicose vein treatment is a covered expense. If varicose vein treatment is done only to improve the appearan…
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- Lifestyle and home remedies for varicose veins include: 1. Exercise.Get moving. Walking is a great way to encourage blood flow in the legs. Your health care provider can recommend an appropriate activity level for you. 2. Manage weight.Shedding excess pounds takes unnecessary pressure off the veins. 3. Avoid salt.Follow a low-salt diet to prevent s...
Alternative Medicine
- Though they haven't been well studied, a number of alternative therapies claim to be helpful treatments for chronic venous insufficiency. This is a condition associated with varicose veins in which leg veins have problems returning blood to the heart. Alternative therapies for varicose veins may include: 1. Horse chestnut 2. Butcher's broom 3. Grape (leaves, sap, seed and fruit) 4. …
Preparing For Your Appointment
- Your health care provider will need to look at your bare legs and feet to diagnose varicose veins and figure out what treatment might be best for your condition. Your primary care doctor might recommend that you see a doctor who specializes in vein conditions (phlebologist), a vascular surgeon or a doctor who treats skin conditions (dermatologist or dermatology surgeon). In the …