Veiny Hands – Should I Be Worried?
It’s not uncommon in many circumstances for a person to have prominent veins in their hands. But can veiny hands signal a deeper issue and should you be worried? Here’s what you need to know.
VenaSeal vs Thermal Ablation to Treat Problematic Varicose Veins
Varicose veins can cause discomfort and pain. Perhaps you’re already experiencing the itching, throbbing, and burning associated with problematic veins. Not so long ago, treatment for varicose veins involved surgical vein stripping but thankfully, advances in technology mean patients can now benefit from a variety of non-surgical treatments.
Over the last couple of decades, thermal ablation in the form of radiofrequency or lasers has been the ‘go-to’ less-invasive alternative to surgery. Vein ablation uses targeted heat to close a problematic vein and eliminate it. But nowadays there is another option – have your troublesome varicose veins glued shut with an innovative treatment known as VenaSeal.
But first of all, let’s start with what causes varicose veins in the first place.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Blood is directed through your veins to the heart using a one-way valve. If the valve fails to close properly it enables blood to flow back into the vein in a condition called venous insufficiency. In a nutshell, your uncomfortable bulging veins are caused by leaky valves. Unfortunately, they can’t heal on their own and can worsen over time. As they get bigger and twist, they can cause complications such as skin ulcers, pain, and blood clots.
Treating Varicose Veins with Thermal Ablation
Thermal ablation is more comfortable and less invasive than undergoing surgical vein stripping. During the procedure, ultrasound technology is used to guide a small catheter into a diseased vein, and laser or radiofrequency energy is applied to injure and collapse the vein. Patients are kept comfortable during the procedure with twilight sedation. Depending on the length of the vein, multiple injections may be necessary. As the body heals from the heat exposure, the vein is eventually replaced with connective tissue and the collapsed vein is absorbed.
While a patient is able to walk out of the treatment and go back to work immediately, it can take a few days to recover. Often compression stockings or socks are worn following treatment to help the body heal.
Treating Varicose Veins with VenaSeal
Venaseal is a safe and alternative treatment to surgery and thermal ablation. This innovative closure system uses a safe non-toxic mouldable medical ‘glue’ to close varicose veins. A pre-determined amount of adhesive is injected into the diseased vein through a single-entry point using a small catheter and with no need for you to endure multiple injections. Some of the advantages of VenaSeal include:
- Less discomfort and bruising
- No risk of skin burns or nerve damage
- No post-treatment pain medication is needed
- No exercise restrictions
- You can get back to normal activities including work, right away
No need to wear compression stockings while your veins heal
What You Need to Know About VenaSeal Treatment
Depending on the length of your vein, VenaSeal closure treatment takes between 30 to 60 minutes. During the treatment, ultrasound technology is used to determine the best place to close the vein. The site is numbed with a single injection per vein. A small catheter delivers the specified amount of adhesive to the vein being treated and temporary pressure is applied to help seal the vein.
VenaSeal is often referred to as a medical ‘superglue’ because it sets very quickly. Over the next few months, the treated vein is absorbed by your body and the blood flow is directed to a nearby healthy vein. You can rest assured that vein treatment does not harm your circulation.
You shouldn’t have to put up with troublesome varicose veins. Although VenaSeal may not be the right treatment for everyone, it could be the best varicose vein treatment for you.
Why not contact the Midwest Institute for Non-Surgical Therapy (MINT) to learn more about VenaSeal and alternative treatments. Dr. Akinwande will be happy to explain each therapy and discuss what’s right for you. Contact MINT today to schedule your consultation at one of our 5 clinics, including the latest addition in Chicago, IL.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Diabetes And Vascular Disease – How Are They Related?
Have you ever wondered why people with diabetes often have vein problems? This article explains the link between diabetes, veins and vascular disease and how to reduce your risk for both conditions.
Prostate Health – Essential Tips For Men Of All Ages
Managing prostate health is crucial for men of all ages, as it plays a vital role in overall well-being and quality of life. We explore tips and practices that can help keep your prostate healthy, including dietary recommendations, exercise and screenings.
After Vein Treatment – What Comes Next?
We’d like to reassure patients that minimally invasive procedures for veins offer a comfortable and gentle solution to the irritating and often painful symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency. Learn what happens after vein treatment and what to expect.
Varicose Veins In Men – Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Them
Although varicose veins are perceived to be a woman’s problem, did you know they can affect men too? It’s true! This article delves into varicose veins in men, their causes and treatment options. Keep reading to learn more.
Ways To Prevent Diabetic Neuropathy – 4 Effective Strategies
If you’re living with diabetes there’s a high chance of developing nerve damage, particularly in your legs or feet. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent diabetic neuropathy by managing your diabetes. Read on to learn more.