Treatment Options
Venous insufficiency is a manageable condition, and treatment is typically focused on relieving symptoms, improving circulation, and preventing complications. Options include:
Conservative Treatments
- Compression stockings: These help reduce swelling, improve circulation, and relieve discomfort. They are often the first line of treatment.
- Leg elevation: Raising the legs above heart level for 15–20 minutes several times a day helps reduce pooling.
- Exercise: Walking or low-impact activities strengthen calf muscles, aiding venous return.
- Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on veins.
- Medications: Venoactive drugs may help reduce symptoms such as swelling and discomfort.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
If conservative treatments are not effective, your doctor may recommend:
- Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected into affected veins to close them off. Used primarily for smaller veins.
- Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA): Heat is used to seal off larger veins, typically done under local anaesthesia with minimal downtime.
- Foam sclerotherapy: A foamed agent is injected to treat larger or deeper veins.
Surgical Treatments
In more advanced cases, particularly with venous ulcers or severely damaged veins, surgery may be considered:
- Vein ligation and stripping: Removing or tying off the affected vein. This is less commonly performed today due to advances in minimally invasive methods.