The truth about varicose veins

Treatment and prevention

Simple treatments
Varicose and thread veins are congested with blood, so they really aren't doing their job any more. Fortunately, there are plenty of other, healthy veins to take over. So most of these unwanted veins simply aren't necessary and can be removed. Surgery is an option, but there are simpler things you can try first, including:

Sclerotherapy
If these conservative methods don't work you might want to try sclerotherapy. This treats varicose and thread veins, normally at an outpatient's department or a day care centre and has a success rate of between 50 to 90 per cent. A tiny needle is used to inject the veins with sclerosing (hardening) solution, which irritates the lining of the vein. In response, the vein collapses and is reabsorbed. You may need one or several sclerotherapy sessions four to six weeks apart, and may have one or several injections per session.

Complications of sclerotherapy includes the development of fine, red blood vessels near the injection sites of larger vessels on the thighs, some of which disappear on their own. Muscle cramps which go away in within minutes, temporary swelling of your feet or ankles, bruising which usually fades and pigmentation - brown lines or spots - that can last for several months.