Autumn is the Best Season for Vein Treatments
Varicose veins and spider veins can be treated year-round safely, but there are certainly some times of the year that are easier to undergo treatment than others. If you have varicose or spider veins, autumn is a great time to have them treated.
What Happens After a Vein Procedure?
After a varicose vein or spider vein treatment, you can expect to have some bruising around the treated area. Even though homeopathic agents can be topically administered to minimize bruising afterward, treatment does lead to some bruising. This bruising can be more if the affected veins are spread out over a large portion of the legs. Thus some people like to avoid these treatments in summer or before a vacation where they may wear shorts or a bathing suit.
You’ll also need to wear compression stockings post-treatment. These stockings apply pressure to the legs in order to help with blood flow. The compression stockings will need to be worn during the day when you aren’t showering for about one to two weeks. After this period, your vein doctor will determine whether it’s okay to no longer wear them.
The bruising and compression stockings together make autumn the ideal time to have veins treated. The longer clothing that accompanies cooler weather naturally covers bruises and compression stockings, so you can still wear a natural and comfortable wardrobe. Your clothing choices won’t reveal that you’ve recently undergone vein treatment.
Additionally, the sun is out less during autumn and people tend to spend less time outdoors during this time of year compared to summer. Sun exposure can delay recovery, so undergoing treatment when exposure to UV rays is limited is also beneficial.
How Vein Doctors Diagnose Veins
Vein doctors diagnose varicose veins and spider veins through a combination of a physical exam, questions and (often) an ultrasound.
Your doctor will check your legs while you stand, and they’ll ask about any aching or pain that you have. In many cases, they’ll also order an ultrasound that can look into your veins to see whether there are blood clots and what shape the vein’s valves are in. An ultrasound is a safe and non-invasive procedure that takes only a short while.
Hot to Best Prepare for a Vein Procedure
Exactly how you should prepare for a vein procedure depends on the exact procedure that you’re having done. You can view our varicose vein treatment options, and your doctor will guide you through the specific preparatory steps that you should take.
As a general guideline, the following are some items to keep in mind leading up to your vein procedure:
- Some patients may need to arrange for a ride home. Your provider can advise if that is the case for you.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing, darker pants and flat shoes. This makes it easier since we put a dressing on your leg after the procedure.
- Eat breakfast and remain well-hydrated
- Bring your compression stockings. We may use these rather than a wrap after the procedure.
Meet with our Vein Doctors
If you are interested in learning more about treatment options for varicose and/or spider veins, simply fill out our Online Appointment Request Form or call any of our clinics in Northwest Portland , Tigard, Happy Valley or Bend, Oregon.