Varicose veins are knotted, unsightly veins caused by blood assembling in the legs. They are frequently inflated, bulging, and winding veins that might be blue or dark purple.
Varicose veins rarely require medical treatment, but if you experience swelling, hurting, aching legs, and significant discomfort, you should seek professional help. Laser treatment for varicose veins is a common and effective way to manage them.
There is always a danger of problems when adequate blood flow is compromised. Bleeding, thrombophlebitis (blood clots in the leg veins), chronic venous insufficiency, and unattractive veins observable just beneath the skin are some of the risks.
Endovenous laser treatment is used to treat more prominent varicose veins in the legs. A laser fiber is inserted into the vein through a catheter, and the technician monitors the vein on an ultrasound screen. You will need to wear compression stockings for a week or two following endovenous laser therapy.
Patients are urged to begin walking immediately following the surgery. Still, they should avoid any rigorous leg exercises (such as weight training) for two to three weeks to allow for proper healing and closure of the treated veins.
For two to four weeks, there is bruising and minor soreness in the treated limb. Patients may notice a reduction in the noticeability of their varicose veins within a week, but full results may take weeks to months. Depending on the degree of their varicose veins, some individuals may require further treatment. Some ways to care for yourself pre and post laser treatment are:
Talk about medications and drug use: Ask your doctor if there are any modifications you should make before the operation when you visit with him or her. For example, if you smoke, you should stop because tobacco can cause healing to be delayed. Examine all of your drugs, herbs, and supplements.
Some may have an impact on how you react to anesthesia. Others may increase the risk of bleeding. You might have to stop taking some the day before your surgery or even the day before.
Work out and do stretches: As you heal, it’s critical to keep blood circulating through your legs. Three to four times, pump your ankles. This should be done every 10 minutes. Walk around for 10 to 15 minutes at a time once an hour. You can begin right away after you return home from the hospital. This lowers your chances of getting a blood clot. As you gain strength, increase your daily activity by a small amount.
Keep an eye out for possible issues: Ensure you are aware of the warning signs and symptoms of significant surgical complications. Keep an eye out for increased discomfort, redness, or swelling in your leg. These symptoms could indicate an infection or a blood clot.
If your leg bleeds, you have a fever, or clot symptoms, call your doctor immediately. The procedure may also impact the nerve near the varicose vein; however, this is uncommon. After getting laser treatment for varicose veins, don’t get behind the wheel for at least three days. Do not drive if your doctor has recommended narcotic pain medication.
Healing time following varicose vein surgery is usually one to four weeks. During that period, you should avoid or reduce many of your normal activities. For at least two weeks, avoid hard lifting and strenuous exercise. However, everyone recovers in their own unique way.