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FAQs about Varicose & Spider Veins and Treatments In Illinois
Living with varicose and spider veins can be a struggle, affecting the quality of life for many patients.
For some, physical symptoms like itching, swelling, tenderness and pain can make vein issues even more uncomfortable. Also, the unsightly appearance of varicose veins often leads to lower self-confidence for many patients, and an inability to enjoy the lifestyle they once had.
What some don’t realize is that vein treatment can be a life-changing solution. Being able to resolve both the appearance and physical symptoms of varicose and spider veins has a significant impact on the quality of everyday life for patients. Here are a few of the questions we are commonly asked by patients, to help you learn more about vein treatment options.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins commonly occur in the legs and feet, and are enlarged, misshapen veins that are visible to the naked eye. Faulty valves cause varicose veins, which allow blood to pool, leading to an enlarged, dysfunctional vein. They occur most commonly in your lower extremities due to the increased pressure that results from standing and walking. Many patients only experience cosmetic issues from varicose veins, but for some, physical discomfort such as swelling, throbbing and itching can also be a symptom.
What are spider veins?
Spider veins are named for their spider web-like appearance. They are a clustered collection of small vessels enlarged and twisted, and often red, purple, or blue in color. You are most likely to experience spider veins on your legs or face, with risk factors including pregnancy, age, genetics, long periods of standing, and hormone levels.
What is the best treatment for varicose veins?
There are different options for varicose vein treatment, each providing excellent results with a minimally invasive technique. Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA/EVLT) uses a laser to shut down the problematic veins, eliminating the issue. Sclerotherapy involves injecting a special liquid to close the vein, resulting in the same resolution as EVLA. A professional can help you choose the best treatment for your specific case.
What is the best treatment for spider veins?
Spider veins are often treated with sclerotherapy, which allows the doctor to pinpoint and target the problem areas. It is minimally invasive, generally requiring little to no recovery time at all. Sclerotherapy has risen above other spider vein treatment options as incredibly effective, providing patients with excellent results
When should I consider getting vein treatment?
If you have varicose veins or spider veins and feel that they are affecting your quality of life, you should absolutely consider treatment. With the minimally invasive methods and technology available today, it is easier than ever to resolve your vein issues. It is important to consult a doctor if you are experiencing physical symptoms as a result of your vein issues, including pain, itching or swelling.
How should I prepare for vein treatment?
Your doctor will provide you with specific pre-procedure instructions, but you can expect very minimal preparation. The procedures we perform do not require you to stop any medications nor are you supposed to stop eating or drinking before procedures. On the day of the treatment, the doctor also may recommend that you do not apply any lotions to the surface of the skin.
Is vein treatment right for me?
Because of the versatility of varicose and spider vein treatment, most patients are excellent candidates. Vein therapy works for a range of skin tones and types and can target both large and small vein issues. Also, during treatments like EVLA/EVLT or sclerotherapy, recovery time is minimal, so most patients don’t have to worry about changing their everyday activities post-procedure.
What helps varicose vein pain?
The best course of action to resolve pain from varicose veins is to correct the vein issue itself. Generally, once vein therapy is used, all physical symptoms are resolved as well. A simple procedure can give you relief from chronic pain.
How much does varicose vein laser treatment cost?
Many cases of vein treatment are considered “cosmetic” by insurance companies, though in certain situations they are deemed medically necessary. This is one factor that will help determine the cost of your procedure. Because each patient requires a specific amount of treatment, costs can vary. Your doctor can provide you with more specific information after a consultation.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel my appointment?
1.) Cancellation/No Show Policy for Appointments (consultations and follow ups):
Please allow 24 hours for cancellation. We understand there are times when will miss an appointment due to emergencies or obligations with work or family. However, when you do not call to cancel an appointment you may be preventing another patient from getting much needed treatment. Conversely, the situation may arise where another patient fails to cancel and we are unable to schedule you for a visit, due to a seemingly “full” appointment book.
2.) Cancellation/No Show Policy for Procedures:
Please allow at least 48 hours for cancellation of procedure appointments. Due to the amount of time needed for the procedure, last minute cancellations can cause problems and added expenses for the office.
3.) Scheduled Appointments:
We understand that delays can happen, however, we must try to keep the other patients and doctors on time. If a patient is 15 minutes past their scheduled time we will have to reschedule the appointment.
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