Your circulatory system is the method by which blood travels from your heart throughout your body, taking precious nutrients, oxygen, and other life preserving materials to a range of organs and tissues that need it. Problems with this system can lead to abnormal blood flow, and cause several complications.
Varicose veins are an example of a condition resulting from abnormal blood flow, and while the effects can be severe, they are often only mild. Many people who suffer from this vein condition experience it in their legs, but it also impacts ankles and feet. To better understand this condition and your treatment options, let’s examine the causes of varicose veins in your feet, how sclerotherapy can help, and what to expect from the treatment.
If you live in the Dallas, Texas area and you’re tired of looking at those unsightly varicose veins in your feet and ankles, Dr. Francine Rhinehart and her skilled medical staff can help.
This condition is caused by several factors that result in pressure on the veins, leading to them getting weaker and bigger. The valves in your veins that regulate the direction your blood moves will start to function improperly and eventually lead to blood pooling where it shouldn’t and result in the discolored, swollen veins you see.
Common factors that contribute to the problem include hormones, excess weight, restrictive clothing, standing for long periods, and aging. Factors that increase the risk of getting this condition include:
Dr. Rhinehart works with you to determine the cause and make lifestyle changes that can improve your vein health.
This first line treatment for conditions like varicose veins and other forms of venous insufficiency uses an injection of a substance called a sclerosant, which is designed to irritate blood vessels. Once irritated, blood flow is cut off and the vessel shrinks. Our team uses this method to reduce damaged veins until they disappear. Your body intuitively reroutes your blood to healthier veins, and eliminates unsightly veins from feet and ankles.
This outpatient procedure begins by cleaning the treatment area. Sometimes an ultrasound is used as a guide, and some procedures may be done with an anesthetic and a catheter. Once the doctor injects the solution, it goes to work shutting down flow to the damaged vein so it can redirect to healthy veins.
As the solution does its work, your damaged vein is absorbed by your body, reducing visibility and discomfort. Depending on the size and length of the vein, several injections may be necessary.
Make an appointment with Dr. Rhinehart and her team today to get rid of the unsightly veins in your feet. We look forward to seeing you soon.
