Treating Varicose Veins With Compression Hose And Surgery

As is the case with most medical conditions, patients suffering from varicose veins can treat their pain and swelling using a variety of techniques

. The two most common treatment methods are compression hose and surgery.

Compression Hose

Also called varicose veins stockings, compression hose support blood flow in the legs and can relieve the pain and sensitivity associated with the condition. Compression hose are tightest at the ankles, becoming progressively looser over the calves, knees, and thighs. The extra pressure around the ankle and lower calf helps the body pump blood from the calf to the heart. This is important because the veins in the leg must push blood upward against gravity and can become varicose when pressure weakens internal valves, allowing blood to flow backwards.

Compression socks and hose are available in a variety of support levels and styles. Support levels are measured in mmHg and begin at 10 to 20 mmHg for over-the-counter products. Prescription compression hose must be professionally fitted and can reach levels greater than 50 mmHg.

At one point, compression hose were only manufactured in a small number of styles, but the market has expanded to include nearly as many options as regular stockings. Patients can choose between knee-high, thigh-high, and full compression hose, with optional open toe forms ideal for warm weather shoes. Varicose veins stockings are also available in a variety of colors, including black, nude, and white. Some popular brands include Medi, Miss Relax, and Jobst Support Socks.

Surgery and Other Techniques

Varicose veins can be treated through a variety of medical techniques, including vein stripping, sclerotherapy, and laser treatment. In vein stripping procedures, varicose veins are stripped (removed) from the body after being tied off. As varicose veins are typically superficial, they can be removed with little effect.

Alternatively, sclerotherapy actually causes the vein to close on its own when a chemical called schlerosant is injected into the vein. Sclerotherapy is generally only used to treat small varicose veins. Laser treatment achieves a similar affect through a process called abalation, which damages the vein through an inserted laser fiber. This treatment is also best for small veins, as well as spider veins, and it is sometimes performed in conjunction with a vein stripping procedure.

Women choose varicose vein surgery for a number of reasons. Some are most interested in reducing pain, while others are bothered by the veins swollen appearance. Barring any intervening medical conditions, varicose vein procedures are generally considered safe, however their long term affects have not yet been studied.

Both compression hose and surgery are valid treatment options for varicose veins, but doctors generally encourage patients to try varicose veins stockings before pursuing surgery. This way, patients can make an informed decision about whether or not their varicose veins require surgical intervention. For many women, wearing compression hose provides adequate treatment, but every case is different. If youre looking to begin treating your varicose veins, its best to start with over-the-counter stockings and work your way up.

by: Mark Etinger

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