The best time for varicose vein treatment: winter months

Stating that the winter months stand out as a period that facilitates the recovery process in varicose vein treatment, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Didem Melis Öztaş noted that the use of compression stockings after treatment and skin sensitivity are more easily managed in winter. So, what are varicose veins? Why is it important to undergo varicose vein treatment in the winter? Here are the details...

12punto

WHAT ARE VARICOSE VEINS?

Varicose veins are the enlargement, lengthening, twisting, and visibility of veins on the skin, usually in the inner part of the calf and thigh, due to high blood pressure. In the treatment of varicose veins, which has become a significant problem both aesthetically and in terms of health today, the modern methods used offer great advantages for patients. Some of the methods applied in varicose vein treatment are as follows.

EFFECTIVE TREATMENT WITH MODERN METHODS

Minimally invasive methods such as laser and radiofrequency ablation play a major role in the treatment of varicose veins. Thanks to these methods, varicose veins can be closed quickly, and patients have the opportunity to return to their daily lives on the same day after treatment. Öztaş said, “Techniques such as sclerotherapy are preferred for smaller-diameter varicose veins. In the sclerotherapy procedure, the veins disappear over time with special drugs injected into the varicose vein. Surgical interventions are generally applied in more advanced cases, but thanks to new techniques, patients can be treated more quickly and comfortably.”

RECOVERY PROCESS AND THINGS TO CONSIDER

Patients experience a rapid recovery process after varicose vein treatment. Patients are usually discharged on the same day and can return to their daily activities within a short time. However, there are points to consider after treatment. Regular use of compression stockings supports leg circulation and accelerates healing. In addition, it is recommended to avoid heavy lifting and intense physical activities.

AVOID SITTING STILL

Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are of great importance to prevent the formation of varicose veins or to slow their progression. Activities that work the leg muscles, such as walking and swimming, increase blood circulation. It is also necessary to avoid standing for long periods or sitting still.

VARICOSE VEIN DEVELOPMENT AND TREATMENT DURING PREGNANCY

Varicose vein formation is common during pregnancy, so surgical intervention is avoided. Pregnant women are required to use compression stockings more often and walk regularly. In cases that do not resolve, treatments are applied after birth.

VARICOSE VEIN TREATMENT IN WINTER MONTHS

The winter months are a more suitable time frame for varicose vein treatment. The reason for this is that using compression stockings after treatment is more comfortable in cold weather. In addition, since skin sensitivity may occur after procedures such as laser and sclerotherapy, it is important not to be exposed to sunlight. Since there is less sunlight in the winter months, the risk of staining on the skin also decreases. Furthermore, although there is an increase in symptoms in the summer months, the recovery process can be slightly more uncomfortable because swelling in the legs may increase due to the effect of hot weather. Treatments performed during the winter period provide more comfort to patients during the recovery process as they coincide with a period when social activities are generally fewer.