Frequently Asked Questions |
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We are more than happy to answer any questions you might have. Below are some of the more common question asked by our clients.
Why do I have varicose veins? Varicose veins typically effects women between the ages of 35 and 55. It commonly occurs after pregnancy which explains why women in this age group are affected. Men however can also develop varicose vein and approximately 10% of men are affected throughout their lifetime. Varicose veins are often hereditary and can be exacerbated by obesity, standing on your feet for long periods of time and lack of mobility. Will I be able to drive home on the day of my EVLT procedure? No, you will not be able to drive yourself home. Prior to the proceedure, we will check that you have made arrangements for safe transport home. After EVLT, we insist that patients are accompanied home. But if you are unable to arrange a driver then we would insist that other arrangements are made. Can I go back to work on the same day as my procedure? If possible it is best to not return to work on the same day as your procedure, however, there is no specific contraindication to this. However, you must be able to walk around during the remainder of the day. What about other activities after sclerotherapy? The best activity is walking. You should try to resume normal level of activity with overdoing it. Each individual will have their own tolerance level, but a typical amount is two twenty minute walks a day, with some walks in between. How long do I have to wear compression stockings for after my procedure takes place? After sclerotherapy and endovenous laser therapy, it is advisable to wear the compression stockings for 24 hours a day for the first three days after treatment. The aim is to keep the stocking on at all times especially while standing during those first three days. This includes while showering also. This can be overcome by swapping stockings immediately after a shower or by ensuring it is covered so as to keep it dry. If you do however experience numbness or discomfort of the foot during the night you may limit the use of the stocking to all other times apart from when you are sleeping. After three days, you are not required to wear the stockings to bed at night but you should continue to wear them at all times during the day, especially when standing and when showering. For endovenous laser therapy, once three days has passed, you can wear the stocking just during the day, without wearing it to bed at night. What can I do to prevent my varicose veins coming back? People who walk regularly enjoy the benefits of improved vein function, as well as the health benefits associated with regular exercise. Is endovenous laser therapy a safe procedure? The procedure is very safe, but complications can occur. In particular, small DVT's are some times identified as we perform post operative scans after all EVLT and RFA procedures. The scans show up small clots that were previously undetected, allowing us the opportunity to deal with the clot before it causes a clinical problem. Will I have any restrictions to travelling after my procedure? You should not travel for two to three weeks after the procedure. Of course, it is the distance that is being travelled and your potential decrease in mobility that are the primary constraints. Short trips of up to one hour are usually well tolerated, but should be broken with a 5 minute walk. Longer trips require more regular breaks. It may be necessary to have injections to thin the blood if travel is unavoidable. |
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