The Role of Conservative Treatment in Treating Vein Disease
Once a vein has become dilated or bulging, or a varicose vein, it will not return to a normal state and must be treated. In the event that you present with either cosmetic or symptomatic venous concerns, your first step should always be conservative treatment for varicose veins, followed by a visit with and ultrasound performed by a venous ultrasound specialist.
* Compression Stockings
Wearing properly fitted medical-grade compression stockings is the most immediate action that should be taken in the case of vein disease, especially when the veins are symptomatic. Compression stockings can be purchased at some pharmacies/medical supply stores, as well as my Boca Raton vein center, The Kimmel Institute. We stock a wide variety of styles, including below-knee, above-knee and pantyhose styles, and members of our staff are trained and experienced in personal fittings for each patient. Individuals presenting with vein disease should wear a minimum of 20-30 mmHg level of compression, which should help alleviate some of the swelling and improve microcirculation in the legs. Higher strength levels of compression may be necessary for those with more advanced or progressive disease. The stockings should be worn all day for full effect, and absolutely whenever one will be standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time.
*Exercise
Patients should exercise 30 minutes per day. Your leg muscles pump the blood out of your legs through your veins. If the muscles are not moving, the blood tends to pool in your legs, and your legs begin to swell. Also, you should avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time.
*Elevation
Patients should elevate their legs, in a reclining position, above heart-level two-three times per day, 30-45 minutes each session.
Although conservative treatment will not permanently treat diseased veins, it will provide you with some symptomatic relief, and documented conservative treatment (often 2 weeks to 3 months) is the first step required by certain insurance providers when determining coverage for endovenous laser ablations and micro-phlebectomies. If you suffer with the pain or cosmetic issues associated with vein disease, please call my Boca Raton office for a complimentary vein screening at 561-477-0210.
Dr. Richard Kimmel
