Vascular diseases affect millions of people worldwide and can pose a serious risk to our health and well-being. When left untreated, these diseases can lead to serious complications such as heart attacks, stroke, and even death. Fortunately, there are several vascular treatments available today that can help prevent or manage these conditions, allowing us to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
At Sinai Laser Vein Center, our expert-trained physicians are dedicated to providing the best care for vascular disease by utilizing the most cutting-edge technology for you and your loved ones to take control of your health.
Here is everything you need to know about common vascular treatments.
What Are Vascular Diseases?
Vascular diseases are a group of conditions that affect the circulatory system, i.e., the vessels that carry blood throughout our body. These blood vessels include arteries, veins, and capillaries. A healthy circulatory system is essential for good health because it supplies vital nutrients, oxygen, and hormones to our cells and organs, allowing them to function correctly.
Vascular diseases occur when these vessels become damaged or diseased, leading to a wide range of complications. Some common vascular diseases include peripheral artery disease, varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis, aneurysms, and stroke. Risk factors for developing vascular disease include smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and a diet high in saturated fats and cholesterol.
If left untreated, vascular diseases can significantly impact our quality of life, leading to pain, reduced mobility, and increased risk for heart attack, stroke, and other serious health conditions. Therefore, it's essential to take steps to prevent vascular disease wherever possible and seek treatment if symptoms arise.
Lifestyle Modification
Making healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of developing vascular diseases and can also help in managing these conditions. Some of these choices include,
- Regular exercise, which helps improve blood flow, strengthens the muscles, and can reduce the risk of developing peripheral artery disease.
- Eating a diet low in saturated fats, cholesterol, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources can help reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis.
- Quitting smoking
- Limiting alcohol
Overall, lifestyle modifications are an effective and essential aspect of treating and preventing vascular diseases and making healthy choices can improve a person's overall health and quality of life.
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is a minimally invasive treatment for venous diseases like varicose veins. This treatment involves using a laser fiber to heat and seal the affected veins, reducing the appearance of varicose veins and improving blood flow. During the procedure, a small incision is made in the affected area and a laser fiber is inserted into the vein. The fiber then delivers laser energy to the vein, causing it to close and redirect blood flow to healthier veins.
While EVLA is a relatively new treatment, it has shown to be effective with a high success rate and minimal downtime. Patients typically experience little to no pain during the procedure and can return to regular activity within a few days. EVLA is often recommended for patients who wish to improve the cosmetic appearance of varicose veins or relieve associated symptoms, such as pain, swelling, or heaviness in the legs.
It's important to discuss with a healthcare provider whether or not EVLA is the right treatment option, and to be aware of any potential risks or complications associated with the procedure.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is another minimally invasive treatment option for venous diseases like varicose veins. This treatment involves the use of radio waves to heat and seal the affected veins, resulting in improved blood flow and a reduction in the appearance of varicose veins.
During the procedure, a small incision is made in the affected area, and a thin, flexible catheter is inserted into the vein. The catheter then delivers radiofrequency energy to the vein, causing it to close and redirecting blood flow to healthier veins. Like EVLA, RFA is a highly successful treatment option, with minimal downtime and little to no pain during the procedure.
RFA is often recommended for patients who want to improve the cosmetic appearance of varicose veins or for patients who experience associated symptoms such as pain, swelling, or leg ulcers. Individuals should consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a popular treatment option for venous diseases like varicose veins and spider veins. This treatment involves injecting a solution directly into the affected veins, causing them to scar and eventually close, leading to an improvement in the appearance of the veins. During the procedure, a healthcare provider injects the solution into the affected veins using a fine needle. The solution irritates the lining of the vein, causing the vein to collapse and stick together. The blood then clots, and over time, the vein is reabsorbed into the body.
Like any medical procedure, sclerotherapy may have potential risks and complications, such as skin discoloration, allergic reactions, and blood clots. Overall, sclerotherapy remains an excellent option for individuals looking to improve the cosmetic appearance of their veins and reduce related symptoms. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if sclerotherapy is the right treatment option for you.
Varithena
Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical and minimally invasive treatment option for venous diseases, including varicose veins and spider veins. During the procedure, a solution is directly injected into the affected veins using a fine needle, which irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to collapse and stick together. Eventually, the body absorbs it, leading to an improvement in the appearance of the veins.
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure and typically needs no anesthesia. It is an effective and safe treatment option with a high success rate and low risk of complications. However, patients may experience some side effects such as discomfort during the injection, itching, and skin discoloration, which usually resolve in a few days.
It is extremely important to schedule a consultation appointment with a healthcare provider to assess your vascular disease and determine the right path of treatment for you.
If you are suffering from vascular disease, our team of expert providers at Sinai Laser Vein Center are dedicated to finding the root of your condition and treating it with long-term solutions. Call one of our offices or schedule an appointment directly online today!
