How is varicose veins treated?
Nov 29, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Varicose veins can also be treated with laser therapy or radiofrequency ablation under a doctor's guidance. Laser therapy involves using laser energy to damage the inner lining of the great saphenous vein, followed by compression bandaging to promote adhesion and occlusion of the vein, thereby treating varicose veins. Radiofrequency ablation, on the other hand, uses radiofrequency energy to destroy the inner layer of the blood vessel, promoting fibrous tissue proliferation that ultimately leads to vessel closure.
In general, treatment methods for varicose veins include general management, medication, physical therapy, surgical treatment, and traditional Chinese medicine. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation at a hospital and undergo standardized treatment under a physician's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. General Management
It is recommended to reduce prolonged standing or sitting and avoid crossing the legs. Take a break every 30 minutes by sitting down or elevating the affected limb to relieve venous pressure. Medical compression stockings may also be used under a physician's advice to provide appropriate pressure to the lower limbs, promoting blood circulation and alleviating symptoms of varicose veins.
2. Physical Therapy
Varicose veins can also be treated with laser therapy or radiofrequency ablation under a physician's guidance. Laser therapy uses laser energy to damage the great saphenous vein's inner lining, followed by compression dressing to promote adhesion and occlusion of the vein, thus treating varicose veins. Radiofrequency ablation uses radiofrequency energy to damage the inner layer of the blood vessel, promoting fibrous tissue proliferation that eventually leads to vessel closure. This treatment is suitable for patients with mild varicose veins.
3. Medication
Patients with varicose veins may follow medical advice to use venous active drugs such as sodium aescinate for injection, Venoruton tablets, Diosmin tablets, etc., which can improve poor circulation caused by varicose veins in the lower limbs. Representative medications include Venoruton tablets and Diosmin tablets.
4. Surgical Treatment
For patients with severe varicose veins, treatments such as high ligation and stripping of the great saphenous vein or local vein excision may be performed under medical guidance. High ligation and stripping of the great saphenous vein are suitable for patients with simple-type varicose veins of the great saphenous vein. During surgery, the main trunk of the great saphenous vein is identified, ligated at a high position, and its tributaries are also ligated before removing the entire vein from under the skin. Local vein excision is primarily used for removal of varicose branches, involving local anesthesia at the affected area, making a small incision, and removing the varicose vein.
5. Traditional Chinese Medicine
Commonly used traditional Chinese medicine treatments for varicose veins include acupuncture and cupping therapy. Acupuncture at points such as Zusanli (ST36), Neiguan (PC6), Shenque (CV8), Taixi (KI3), and Tanzhong (CV17) can regulate the flow of Qi and blood, promote blood circulation, and improve symptoms. Cupping therapy involves creating negative pressure on the patient's skin using cups to improve local blood circulation, which can also alleviate symptoms of varicose veins.
It is recommended to develop good living habits, maintain a balance between work and rest, and avoid excessive fatigue, which is beneficial to overall health.
