| Choosing one of the many varicose vein doctors available is an important step if you want relief from your condition. Your chosen doctor should be board certified and qualified to help you make an informed decision regarding your varicose vein treatment and able to perform the procedures needed to give you that relief.
Popular opinion suggests that varicose veins affect approximately 15% to 25% of the population of the United States. Varicose veins are more common in women than they are in men, but men can develop them, too. Usually hereditary, they can also be caused by sitting or standing for extended periods of time on hard surfaces like concrete floors.
Used to be that open surgery and stripping was the only treatment available to varicose vein sufferers. Long, painful recovery times are common with this procedure. The surgeries are not always successful and the varicose veins can return.
Technological advancements have brought both minimally invasive and non-invasive treatments to the forefront and they are becoming increasingly more popular and are available nationwide at specialty clinics that deal only with varicose vein removal.
Varicose vein doctors are now considered specialists and are referred to as Interventional Radiologists. They use the various scanning techniques like MRI, CT and X-ray to see the varicose vein then guide the instrument, called a catheter, into the vein and close it with heat or laser energy. This treatment procedure is called endovenous laser ablation and is used to treat large varicose veins.
Another treatment that is available is called foam sclerotherapy. Foam sclerotherapy is mainly used in the treatment of spider veins and smaller varicose veins. This treatment consists of a foam substance being injected into the small vein to block it off. During recovery the vein will basically dry up and remain useless.
The most important aspects to keep in mind when you are choosing your vein specialist are: what kind of treatments do they offer, how many times have they performed them successfully, ask to see before and after pictures of previous patients, and last but not least do you feel comfortable with the doctor? Don't be afraid to ask for a consultation first, shop around, you want the best.
Go one step further if you want to and contact your state's medical licensing board to check on your chosen doctor's specific certifications and licenses. You do not have to do this but it may put your mind at ease somewhat, especially if you are nervous about having the procedure done. Another good idea is to ask someone you trust who has had the same condition repaired successfully who their doctor was and see if they give a good recommendation.
When doing your shopping around for varicose vein doctors, do not forget to keep track of pricing information as the cost of treatment may vary from one clinic to another. Ask if they have financing available to make things a little easier on the pocketbook. Make your informed decision based on these tips and you will not be disappointed.
This article is for information purposes only and is not professional medical advice. Nor should it be used as medical advice at any time. You should consult with your own Physician or other proper medical professionals prior to determining treatment or diagnosis. |