TREATMENT OPTIONS
Varicose veins can be treated in various ways, ranging from invasive to non-invasive procedures. Depending on your preference and doctor’s recommendations, they could be –
Compression Stockings
Treats varicose veins?
No
What is it?
Tights worn on the calves to promote blood circulation.
Post-surgery downtime:
N/A
Sclerotherapy
Treats varicose veins?
Yes
What is it?
Minimally invasive therapy that injects sclerosant, a chemical to seal affected veins. Often considered the treatment of choice for small varicose veins.
Post-surgery downtime:
Patients are usually advised to wear compression stockings up to 7days1 and are often able to return to normalcy very soon after treatment.
Thermal Ablation
Treats varicose veins?
Yes
What is it?
Minimally invasive therapy using heat of laser or radiofrequency to seal diseased veins.
Post-surgery downtime:
Faster recovery time than open surgery such as stripping. Compression stockings needed for at least one week after procedure.2 Average patient typically resumes normal activities within a few days.3
Non-thermal Vein Closure Therapy
Treats varicose veins?
Yes
What is it?
Minimally invasive therapy using small amount of a specially formulated medical adhesive to seal or close the diseased veins.
Post-surgery downtime:
No need for hospital admission. Faster recovery time than thermal ablation.4, 5 Compression stockings not needed after the procedure but some patients may benefit from use.6,7 Patients are usually able to return to normalcy immediately after treatment.
Stripping
Treats varicose veins?
Yes
What is it?
Open surgical treatment removing or tying up the damaged veins.
Post-surgery downtime:
Patients are usually advised to wear compression stockings or compression bandages. It can take 2 to 4 weeks to recover from varicose vein stripping.8
Symptom Checklist
Like you, many aren’t aware of the symptoms to look out for! Subject to any existing medical conditions, some of the symptoms of varicose veins may include:
Swelling of legs and ankles
Heaviness in the legs
Cramping or muscle ache
Burning or itching legs
Visibly enlarged veins
Skin discoloration
Found this information useful? You can download our information card all about varicose veins and share with your friends and family.
Knowing Varicose Veins Malaysia Campaign
In March 2022, we worked with Cardiac Vascular Sentral Kuala Lumpur (CVS KL) to raise awareness on varicose veins amongst young women in Malaysia. Together, we provided complimentary screening sessions and hosted an intimate panel discussion with members of the public. Here’s how the event went down –