As we always say, varicose veins can only ever be treated, not cured. While a treated varicose vein is extremely unlikely to come back, new varicose veins may form, especially if you’re genetically predisposed to the condition. So, here’s how to avoid the return of varicose veins after your treatment.
Why do varicose veins return?
Varicose veins return for 3 main reasons: venous disease progression, inadequate diagnosis or treatment, and neovascularity – this being the growth of new, valve-less veins, which can occur after vein stripping.
- Disease progression: Unfortunately, varicose veins are often a symptom of venous insufficiency. This disorder can result in more valve malfunctions or weakened vein walls, leading to new varicosities. You need to attend your treatment follow-up appointments and inform your vein doctor if you start experiencing varicose vein symptoms again.
- Inadequate treatment or diagnosis: The diagnostic stage is essential for us to pinpoint the size and location of the varicose vein, as well as any additional branches or tributaries it has. Without an ultrasound scan completed by a vascular sonographer or vein specialist, it’s possible some branches may be missed, or the improper treatment may be prescribed. For example, if a doctor uses ClariVein instead of EVLA on a large varicose vein, it may not be enough to fully seal it, making it reopen again. Or if the doctor doesn’t spot and seal a tributary, another vein attached to it may turn varicose.
- Neovascularity: Vein stripping is considered a more aggressive procedure than laser ablation, chemical, and mechanocemical treatments like sclerotherapy and Flebogrif. As the surgeon removes the vein outright, the body is at risk of growing a new vein quickly, often without valves. This new vein, unfortunately, is very likely to turn varicose.
How to avoid the return of varicose veins
At The Vein Institute, our medical team has all the qualifications, training, and experience they need to ensure a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. However, you play a critical role, too. Following post op instructions, coming to your check-ups, and making any necessary changes to your lifestyle will also help minimise recurrence risk.
Wear compression
You’ll likely be asked to wear compression socks for a few days after your treatment. These socks have graduated compression that gently stimulates the muscles and squeezes blood out of congested surface veins, helping it move toward the heart.
These socks will facilitate healing and improve comfort after your treatment. They are also essential for future travel plans and long days on your feet or sitting at the office, as they’ll help prevent the blood pooling that causes varicose veins.
Keep it moving!
Your leg veins rely on the pumping action of your calf muscles to move blood upward. When these muscles relax, the valves seal to stop the backward flow of blood. When it contracts, the blood flows upwards. So, doing some ankle rotations or seated calf raises when you’re at your desk, going on a short walk, or taking 5 minutes to stretch every 30 minutes or so will go a long way to taking pressure off your valves.
Get 30 minutes of exercise daily
Walking, pilates, yoga, and swimming are all fantastic options for supporting vein function. As these activities are mild to moderate in intensity, they boost your circulation and tone the muscles without overstraining the veins.
Stay hydrated
Making sure you drink enough fluids throughout the day will thin the blood, making it easier to move. Water is always the best option, but coffee, tea, juices, and sugar-free beverages like kombucha are also good in moderation. You can also snack on watery fruits and vegetables like watermelon and cucumbers.
Eat vein-friendly foods
Certain foods support vein function, while others can worsen it.
- Fibre keeps the guts healthy, reducing strain on abdominal veins.
- Vitamin C promotes collagen synthesis, strengthening the vein walls.
- Antioxidants – found in high amounts in blueberries, coffee, and green tea – fight free radicals that could result in cell damage.
- High amounts of salt, trans fats, and alcohol will increase water retention, cholesterol, and slow circulation. While foods and drinks containing these are fine in moderation, it’s best not to overdo it.
How to avoid the return of varicose veins: seek specialist advice
We offer safe, effective, and minimally invasive vein treatments. Our patient-centred approach and tailored treatment plans will seal existing varicose veins and minimise the risk of new varicose veins forming. Through compression, exercise, movement, hydration, and staying vigilant of new vein issues, you can reduce your risk further.