Varicose Veins are yet another condition men are less likely to consult a doctor about than women. Yet this simply treated problem may interfere with a guy’s lifestyle or even chosen career. So, perhaps it’s time to show your legs to your doctor.

Statistically, Varicose Veins are yet another condition men are less likely to consult a doctor about than women. Yet this simply treated problem may interfere with a guy’s lifestyle or even chosen career. So, even if you don’t care how you look in those summer shorts, if you’re experiencing discomfort, perhaps it’s time to show your legs to your doctor.

There are some simple things you can do if you have varicose veins.  Exercising, losing weight, elevating your legs when resting, and not crossing them when sitting can help keep varicose veins from getting worse as well as avoiding tight clothes and raising your legs above heart level. Exercises that strengthen your calf muscles may also be helpful to your leg circulation.

If your veins do need medical treatment, that can be easily determined during a physical exam; options range from sclerotherapy, which involves injecting a chemical to close off the offending vein, to laser treatments. The latter is usually applied to smaller veins, aka spider veins. There are also surgical procedures such as vein stripping and ligation for the most severe cases.

At Varicose Vein Clinic of BC, Dr. James Hunter removes varicose veins under local anesthetic in the office using micro incisions (2mm). There are no stitches as the incisions are closed with steristrips which peel off in approximately one week. This procedure is safe, very effective and produces excellent cosmetic results. Read more about varicose veins treatments.

As with any venous condition, the first step toward treatment is a better knowledge of the problem. If you’re one of the millions of North American men who suffer from varicose veins, here are four facts you should know.

You’re Not Alone

As many as 45% of men and 55% of women will suffer from varicose veins at some point in their lives. You may carry the gene, but with the help of medical professionals, anyone can fix their varicose veins quickly and efficiently.

Not Just a Cosmetic Problem

Even though varicose veins may seem like nothing more than a simple cosmetic issue, they can be dangerous for your health. These dilated, twisted blood vessels swell when faulty valves restrict blood flow from the legs to the heart, causing discomfort, swelling, and even ulceration in more severe cases.

Lifestyle Changes Can Help

Elevating your legs while resting and avoiding extended standing or sitting can alleviate the symptoms of varicose veins, while frequent walks, healthy meals, and proper hydration will stimulate blood flow and decrease inflammation.

There Are Treatment Options

Remember, varicose veins cannot completely heal without professional treatment, so talk to a vein specialist about the best option for your condition. Minimally invasive procedures such as laser and radiofrequency ablation use catheters to close the affected vein, beginning the healing process. Another option is a minor surgery called Ambulatory Phlebectomy, during which a specialist extracts the bulging veins through small incisions. This varicose vein extraction allows the body to replenish the blood supply and reroute it through healthier veins.

 

Weighing the risks and benefits of the different procedures, Dr. James Hunter’s primary approach to varicose vein treatment is to remove them under local anesthetic using a micro-incision technique. This procedure is safe, very effective and produces excellent cosmetic results.

If you’re struggling with varicose veins, you can find relief today. Contact Varicose Vein Clinic of BC  and schedule your initial consultation with Vascular Surgeon of over 25 years, Dr. James Hunter.

 

Sources:

• Calgary Herald
• Center for Vein Restoration