The Vein Institute Adelaide answers the frequently asked questions about the common ailment and its treatment.

Varicose veins affect one in every 10  Australians, they are caused when vein valves are no longer functioning properly. The condition is called Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) and it means weak or faulty one-way vein valves are not sufficiently allowing blood to flow. Instead, the blood pools, eventually leading to the swollen, twisted vessels known as varicose veins. 

Who is most likely to get varicose veins?

There are a number of reasons why varicose veins develop. Unfortunately, one of the most common is genetics. A recent case study conducted in the United Kingdom reported that 85 per cent of patients with varicose veins had a family history. 

Another common cause, which is not in our control, is age. As we get older, our vein valves naturally lose elasticity, causing CVI to occur. If you are a senior with varicose veins, you’re not alone – plenty of men and women over 60 suffer from these unsightly and often painful veins. 

Lifestyle factors can also lead to varicose veins. The condition is particularly common for those who work or stand on their feet for most of the day. As varicose veins are so closely linked to our cardiovascular system, being overweight or not exercising can also play a role. 

What treatment is available?

The good news is that varicose veins are treatable. Dr Yassine and his experienced team at The Vein Institute Adelaide, have redefined varicose vein treatment. Using the latest laser technology treating varicose veins now means minimal recovery and no surgery. 

“We use the latest technology from Europe and the USA to provide the most advanced, non-surgical options for the treatment of varicose veins,” Dr Yassine said.

“Surgical treatments will require a few days in hospital and a lengthy recovery period. Non-surgical options are walk-in, walk-out. Many patients return to work the same day.

“Non-surgical varicose vein treatments cause minimal pain and discomfort; they require very little recovery and post-care compression stockings will only be required for a few days – compared to weeks or months with surgery.”

He says the pain is “comparable to an injection or blood test”, and the treatment methods have a higher success rate than surgery, “especially with treatments such as Endovenous Laser and Radiofrequency Ablation, the varicose vein will return in less than 5 per cent of cases”.

What happens if I don’t treat my varicose veins?

Advanced or severe varicose veins can lead to blood pooling into the tissue and skin. This can cause painful swelling, inflammation and discolouration. 

Another complication that can occur is a hardening of the leg tissue, a condition known as Lipodermosclerosis. In extremely rare cases, untreated varicose veins can lead to the formation of potentially dangerous deep vein thrombosis or blood clots.

The best type of treatment for your varicose veins varies, depending on the severity of your case. Doctors at The Vein Institute Adelaide will ensure they uncover the cause of your vein issue and then recommend the most suitable treatment option.

Visit The Vein Institute Adelaide at:

Specialist Central, 22 Walter St,
North Adelaide SA 5006
Ph: 1300 526 731
W: www.theveininstitute.com.au