How to Treat Varicose Veins in Minneapolis and St. Paul

Posted on April 6, 2013 by shucosmetic

The veins are the blood vessels that are responsible for returning blood to the heart. A varicose vein develops when some of the blood stays inside of the veins due to defective valves. Many risk factors such as pregnancy, obesity and long standing could aggravate it. Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that can be very uncomfortable sometimes. It is important to note that painful varicose veins are more common in women than in men in Minnesota.

Feelings of fullness, pain or fatigue in the legs with swollen, visible veins are some of the main symptoms of varicose veins in Minnesota. Patients who have a severe case of varicose veins may develop the complications such as stasis dermatitis and skin ulcers near their ankles.

Varicose veins can be quite bothersome, but fortunately, there are things that can be done to treat them. Sclerotherapy is one of the many treatment options available in Minnesota for small varicose veins. This procedure involves injecting a solution into the vein. This solution causes the varicose vein to collapse. The treated veins will completely fade within a few weeks.

Endovenous laser ablation is another treatment option in Minneapolis for large varicose veins. This procedure involves inserting a laser fiber into the vein. The heat from the laser causes the vein to shrink and eventually disappear.

Additionally, people in the Minneapolis and St. Paul areas have the option of getting mini-phlebectomy. This treatment involves making tiny incisions in order to remove the varicose veins. The patient will be given a local anesthetic prior to this procedure. Because the incisions are so tiny, the doctor will not have to use sutures to close them.

Higher Risk of Varicose Veins in Women | Minneapolis & St Paul

Posted on March 28, 2013 by shucosmetic

Sorry women in Minnesota but you are more at risk for varicose veins due to hormonal conditions, hormone replacement therapy, birth control and pregnancy. When a woman is pregnant there is 50% more blood circulating which puts more stress on the veins. Also the uterus puts pressure on the large vein that brings blood back to the heart. Many times, women in Minnesota feel that they need to wait until they are done having children to have their veins treated. During that time the varicose veins are only getting worse. If you are wondering if you will get varicose veins just look to your parents or grandparents. If they had varicose veins, chances are that you will also.

The job that a woman in Minnesota has can also affect her veins. Occupations in which a person is standing on their feet for long periods of time can add pressure to the veins. Gravity is causing blood to go to the lower legs and stay there. The top 4 professions that can lead to varicose veins are: teachers, medical professionals, restaurant and retail professionals and hair stylists. Taking breaks and moving around and elevating the feet can help the veins not to become worse. If you are starting to have symptoms such as; swelling or throbbing, tenderness around the vein, burning or tingling or itchiness you will want to get your veins checked to see if you need treatment. You don’t have to see the varicose veins to have them. Get treated before they become visible.

In the Minneapolis/St. Paul area there are many vein clinics you can go to. One Stop Medical in the Twin Cities area treats both varicose veins and hemorrhoids which are varicose veins found in the rectal area. Dr. Steven Shu has built up his successful practice performing in office procedures on these veins. Left untreated the veins not only become unsightly but can also become discomfort and painful. Many times that is what finally drives people in to have their varicose veins and hemorrhoids treated. Dr. Shu says, “Don’t wait. Get them treated right away and have a better quality of life now instead of later.”

How to Manage Varicose Veins in Pregnancy | Minneapolis

Posted on March 23, 2013 by shucosmetic

Varicose veins often occur during pregnancy as a result of extra blood that’s produced, which adds a lot of pressure on blood vessels inside the leg veins. Also, the size of a woman’s uterus keeps increasing during pregnancy, adding further pressure to the pelvic blood vessels. Some hormones like progesterone produced during pregnancy have the vessel dilation effect.

Although varicose veins during pregnancy can show up almost anywhere in the lower half of your body, the bulging venous vessels are found primarily in the legs. They swell above the surface of the skin with those distinctive bluish and purplish bulges women in Minnesota love to hate.

Varicose veins are the common reason for the office visit in the Minneapolis and St. Paul areas. Varicose veins may cause discomfort like itching and aching, and they’re certainly not nice to look at — but the good news is they’re unlikely to pose any major risk. Most Varicose veins typically shrink or completely disappear within a few months following birth. However, in the case that a woman becomes pregnant again, these same veins might reappear. Like many other pregnancy symptoms, varicose veins tend to be hereditary.

The best thing for women in Minnesota to do for their Varicose veins during pregnancy is keep the blood circulating by exercising and keep the legs elevated when sitting. It is also important not to wear tight clothing to cause added pressure on the veins. Wearing support hose can support veins and improve the symptoms such as heaviness or leg swelling. Keeping weight gain to a minimum during pregnancy and sleeping on your left side to avoid pressure on your main blood vessels will also help. Lastly, getting your daily dose of vitamin C from a balanced diet will keep the veins healthy. If the Varicose veins don’t go away after the baby has arrived, there are options to have them medically treated or surgically removed, the newest treatment for varicose veins in Minneapolis is endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), other options include sclerotherapy and mini phlebectomy. Small spider veins can be removed in the noninvasive way with the external laser.

Eliminating Varicose Veins with Laser | Minneapolis

Posted on March 16, 2013 by shucosmetic

If you have varicose veins then you are familiar with the discomfort they can cause and the feeling that you don’t want anyone to see your legs. Many men and women in Minnesota will not even wear shorts due to how unsightly the veins can be. You probably have varicose veins if you suffer from these symptoms: Dark red, purple or blue veins close to the surface of the skin, veins in the legs with a bulging, ropy or knotty appearance, trouble walking more than a short distance without fatigue, restless leg syndrome, legs that throb, itch or burn, roadmap or cobweb like veins on the skin or your head, neck, chest or arms, discoloration of skin or edema in the ankles. The symptoms you see are from the veins not working properly.

In healthy veins, the blood will flow smoothly from the heart to the limbs through arteries and then the deoxygenated blood is pumped back out through veins. With varicose veins the valves are not working properly and the blood is pooling or is going in the reverse direction that it is supposed to. Causes could be from age, pregnancy, weight gain, physical stress, it could also be hereditary. Sometimes the valves can just weaken or fail working all together. Don’t worry, if you have varicose veins they can easily be treated today.

In the past treatment for varicose veins in the Minneapolis and St. Paul areas required ligation and stripping in hospital. It was uncomfortable, expensive and had much more downtime associated with it. Today a minimally invasive treatment called endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is much faster and more comfortable to the patient with minimal downtime. EVLA is thermal ablation using a thin laser fiber in a targeted segment of the varicose vein. It will permanently collapse and shrink the vein without having to surgically remove it. A local anesthesia is used to keep the patient comfortable during the procedure. EVLA takes about an hour and is done right in our procedure clinic in Edina, MN. The patient is able to walk out after the procedure is done. The cosmetic results are amazing and the patient’s self-esteem is restored as well.

History of Varicose Vein Surgery Part 2 | Minnesota

Posted on March 12, 2013 by shucosmetic

The University of Cordoba in the Arabs produced one of the most famous surgeons. He was known to the western culture as Albucasis (930 AD to 1313 AD). He became a prominent surgeon during that era. He was appointed as the Court-Physician of King Abdel-Rahman III. Besides his practice of medicine he also did a lot of medical and surgical writings.

He wrote thirty volumes of a digest of vast medical knowledge called Tasrif. He is also known for writing the best medieval surgical encyclopedia on record. It dealt with all aspects of surgery and was the first textbook of surgery to include illustrations of instruments to be used in surgery. It became very famous as it was the standard textbook of surgery used up to the 17th century in prestigious western universities. His medical and surgical expertise was evident in his writings of exact details of clinical and surgical procedures. His writings described the binding of the arteries long before any other physicians. His descriptions of varicose vein stripping are almost like our modern day surgeries for the veins.

The progress of medical science and surgery stalled for about 350 years after 13th century when barber surgeons routinely performed surgeries. In 16th century, the ligation at the site of the varix became the preferred varicose vein surgery. A century later, the combination of bleeding, diet and application of bandages to the legs was recommended by a German surgeon, Lorenz Heister, to avoid varicose vein surgery.

In the mid 1600’s intravenous drugs were first introduced. Opium was put into the vein of a dog using a metal tube and was successful. The hypodermic syringe did not appear until 1851. The introduction of anesthesia and antiseptics, delivered by the hypodermic syringe, brought about great changes in the treatment of varicose veins. In the 1850’s injections really took off and the treatment of veins by injection was becoming popular. The injections were either perchloride of iron or iodine. The perchloride of iron seemed to cause inflammation and swelling. In order to help correct this, the use of compression was advised in order to prevent dilation of the veins. In 1894, due to the high numbers of complications from this treatment, treating varicose veins by injection was abandoned.

One Stop Care of Varicose Veins in Minnesota

Posted on February 23, 2013 by shucosmetic

Chronic venous disease of the legs is one of the most common conditions affecting people in Minneapolis and St Paul areas. Approximately half of the Minnesota population has venous disease. Of these, 20 to 25% of the women and 10 to 15% of men will have visible varicose veins.

It has been known that varicose veins are caused by weakening of the veins and valves in the legs. When the valves in the veins do not properly keep blood flowing from the legs up to the heart, blood begins to collect in the legs resulting in the buildup of pressure. The veins become enlarged and knotted and are visible near the surface of the skin.

Varicose veins typically appear in the feet, ankles and throughout the legs. They can cause pain, swelling, heaviness, itching and cramps. Most cases in Minnesota do not require immediate medical treatment unless there are serious complications associated with the veins.

Although most cases do not cause discomfort or warrant immediate concern, many people in Minneapolis and St Paul areas are bothered by the unsightly appearance of varicose veins. There are three effective treatment options for varicose veins.

Sclerotherapy is a procedure that uses tiny needles to inject the veins with a chemical sclerant to harden the veins and help them fade away. The treatment lasts about 15 minutes in length and is performed every four weeks. Some patients see satisfactory results within one treatment while others with more severe cases may benefit from more sessions.

Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) uses a laser fiber to insert through the skin directly into the vein. The laser heats up the lining of the vein causing it to shrink and fade away. This procedure is more commonly used on larger varicose veins and treatment can take less than an hour to perform.

A procedure called a mini phlebectomy may be used in conjunction with other therapies to treat large, bulging varicose veins. Tiny incisions are made into the skin and superficial veins are removed using vein hooks. It is performed under local anesthesia so pain is minimal.

Varicose Veins Can be Quite Painful- Know the Symptoms and Treatment Options in Minneapolis

Posted on February 12, 2013 by admin

Varicose veins is a condition that affects both men and women. Understanding what causes them and what types of treatments are available will assist you in making the best decision.

Varicose veins develop when valves that control the flow of blood suddenly become weak and stop functioning normally. This causes the veins to bulge and take on a gnarled appearance. As the condition worsens it can cause chronic swelling and pain. Cramping during the night is a common symptom. In most people, they will develop this problem in the leg area. Although, it can appear in other parts of the body as well.

Treatment Options for Varicose Veins in Minneapolis

There are three good options for varicose vein treatment in Minnesota.

Endovenous Laser Ablation (ELA)

A treatment that is often used successfully to eliminate varicose veins is ELA. This is a minimally invasive method that involves inserting a laser fiber or catheter into the affected blood vessel. Once inserted, the fiber is heated. This heat causes the vein to collapse. Eventually, the vein disappears altogether.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical treatment that involves injecting a special solution directly into the targeted vein. After several treatments the vein shrinks away. This has proven to work very well on spider veins.

Micro-Phlebectomy

During micro-phlebectomy the doctor makes tiny micro-incisions into the veins with a special tool. A portion of the vein is removed. This may be done along with other treatments.

When looking for the best treatment for varicose vein in St. Paul, Minnesota seek out a medical professional with a proven record of success. All three of these treatments require skill and proper training. ELA and Sclerotherapy are minimally invasive and do not cause much discomfort. Micro-phlebectomy requires the use of local anesthesia.

You can relieve your suffering from varicose veins and begin enjoying life again.

There is Help for Minneapolis Men and Women Suffering from Varicose Veins

Posted on December 19, 2012 by admin

Varicose veins affect more women than men. In fact, it is estimated that 25 percent of women in the United States have varicose veins. Pregnancy and obesity are two things that can put people at risk for developing a varicose vein in St. Paul. People who stand for a long time may also be at an increased risk for developing varicose veins. Furthermore, patients who have thrombophlebitis are more likely to develop varicose veins. Thrombophlebitis is a condition that occurs when a blood clot develops in one or more veins.

Swollen, visible veins are the most common sign of varicose veins. People may also notice a heavy feeling in their legs. Additionally, varicose veins can be painful.

Varicose veins have a tendency to get worse. The good news is that there is varicose vein treatment in Minnesota available. Endovenous laser ablation is one of the treatment options that is available for people who have varicose veins. This procedure involves using laser energy to seal a varicose vein shut. It typically takes about an hour to complete and is performed under local anesthesia.

Sclerotherapy is another treatment that can remove varicose veins. This procedure involves injecting a sclerosant into the veins. The scleroscant causes the inner lining of the vein to become irritated. This causes the veins to close. No anesthesia is needed and one treatment can be completed in 15 minutes. Patients typically have to get four treatments.

Varicose veins can also be treated with mini-phlebotomy. Mini-phlebotomy involves making small incisions and removing the varicose veins. It is performed under local anesthesia. Patients can return to their normal activities after this procedure, but they will need to wear compression stockings for two or three weeks after their procedure.

What to Do if You Have Painful Varicose Veins in Minneapolis and St. Paul

Posted on November 10, 2012 by admin

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins. The veins are the blood vessels that are responsible for returning blood to the heart. A varicose vein develops when some of the blood stays inside of the veins. Varicose veins can be very uncomfortable.
If the valves in the veins are defective, then a person could develop varicose veins. Pregnancy and obesity can also put a person at risk for developing varicose veins. It is important to note that painful varicose veins are more common in women than in men.

A feeling of fullness in the legs and swollen, visible veins are some of the main symptoms of varicose veins. Patients who have a severe case of varicose veins may develop skin ulcers near their ankles.
Varicose veins can be quite bothersome, but fortunately, there are things that can be done to treat them. Sclerotherapy is one of the many treatment options available for varicose veins. This procedure involves injecting a solution into the vein. This solution causes the varicose vein to collapse. The treated veins will completely fade within a few weeks.

Endovenous laser ablation is another treatment option for varicose veins. This procedure involves inserting a laser fiber into the vein. The heat from the laser causes the vein to shrink and eventually disappear.

Additionally, people have the option of getting micro-phlebotomy. This treatment involves making tiny incisions in order to remove the varicose veins in Minneapolis. The patient will be given a local anesthetic prior to this procedure. Because the incisions are so tiny, the doctor will not have to use sutures to close them.

Varicose Veins

Posted on June 23, 2012 by admin

Varicose veins are caused by weakening of the veins and valves in the legs. When the valves in the veins do not properly keep blood flowing from the legs up to the heart, blood begins to collect in the legs resulting in the buildup of pressure. The veins become enlarged and knotted and are visible near the surface of the skin. In most cases, varicose veins are not serious and do not cause problems; however, they can lead to other health conditions such as blood clots and circulatory problems.

Varicose veins typically appear in the feet, ankles and throughout the legs. They can cause pain, swelling, heaviness, itching and cramps. Most cases do not require medical treatment unless there are serious complications associated with the veins. Chronic inflammation may occur and will require medical care if the veins become ruptured. Many cases of varicose veins are treated with self-care techniques such as elevating the legs and sufficient exercise.

Although most cases do not cause discomfort or warrant immediate concern, many people are bothered by the unsightly appearance of varicose veins. Sclerotherapy is a procedure that uses tiny needles to inject the veins with a chemical sclerant to harden the veins and help them fade away. The treatment lasts about 15 to 30 minutes in length and is performed every four weeks. Some patients see satisfactory results within one treatment while others with more severe cases may benefit from more sessions.

Endovenous laser ablation uses a laser fiber to insert through the skin directly into the vein. The laser heats up the lining of the vein causing it to shrink and fade away. This procedure is more commonly used on larger varicose veins and treatment can take less than an hour to perform.