Daily Question is excerpted from the JustAnswer archives and features information provided from an expert on JustAnswer.
Q: What can I do about my varicose veins?
Wear compression socks (left) and exercise. (Photo: Flickr/lululemon athletica)
A: Varicose veins are gnarled, enlarged veins. They cause incompetent valves in the veins/ dilated perforators and varicocities. This leads to collection of blood in the lower limb – putting it at the risk of clotting.
You can try a variety of treatments. Surgery options include sclerotherapy, laser-assisted surgery, vein stripping or endoscopic vein surgery. Non-surgical options include wearing a compression stocking and elevating your legs whenever possible. You could also raise the leg part of your bed.
You should not sit with your legs crossed, and avoid long periods of sitting or standing. Exercise regularly.
– Answer from Dr. Ken, physician and expert on JustAnswer.
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
I do all the things you recommend.. My problem is Atrial Fibrillation and taking a heart medication for this condition.
Therefore I experience swelling at the ankles during the day; mornings legs are fine. Anything else to recommend. Possibly a change in medication?
My bother has the same problem. He has Varicose Veins too, but they are quite enlarged . He is really afraid of surgical interference. I would love to get more infor about non-surgical methods of treatment. What kind of compression stocking are recommended and where can I buy it?
My cousin who works at the mall says she wants to undergo vein therapy sessions in order to prevent varicose veins. Do clinics provide preventive maintenance or this applies only to those who already have varicose veins?
I actually just got my varicose veins removed at the usa vein clinic in Brooklyn, NY. I understand that they have multiple locations across the United States, so it's definitely a place to check out for sure! I had mine done about 2 months ago, and they are completely gone and I had no pain whatsoever during the procedure. I have spent so much money getting injections before and I really didn't want to have to pay anymore money, but I actually found out that my insurance paid for 100% of it! Any ways, I just thought I would share my experience with everyone. Here is their website if anyone is interested. http://www.usaveinclinics.com
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