+ Do treatments hurt?
We make sure you're always comfortable with numbing solution. Most patients are able to tell stories and watch DVDs during the procedures.
+ What can I do after treatments?
There are no restrictions after treatments, and patients are able to drive themselves to the treatments as well.
+ Can I work after treatments?
Yes, there are no restrictions for most patients unless you have a vein removal: then we do not recommend work until the next day.
+ I am afraid of needles, can you help me?
Yes, we can. People with a fear of needles are common and we prescribe Xanax or a similar agent to allow relaxation before treatment.
+ Can I afford treatments?
Most insurance plans cover vein treatments and we offer payment plans to accommodate our patients' financial situations.
+ I am afraid of blood clots, can this happen after treatments?
The risk of blood clots is very low after vein treatments because people are able to walk freely which prevents blood clots. We also check with ultrasound after vein treatments to make sure no blood clots have formed.
+ I am worried about infection after treatment, can this happen?
The risk of infection is very rare after vein treatments and no antibiotics are recommended before treatments.
+ What is vein reflux?
This means that the blood in the leg veins is back-flowing – down towards your calf and feet – instead of flowing up towards your heart. This causes pressure in your veins which can lead to many uncomfortable symptoms and the appearance of varicose and spider veins.
+ What are the symptoms of vein reflux?
Common symptoms of vein reflux are leg cramps, leg fatigue or aching, swelling, itching, skin discoloration, skin sores, restless legs, heaviness in legs, varicose veins and spider veins.
+ How do you diagnose vein reflux?
For patients with leg or foot symptoms, or visible veins, the diagnosis is made with an ultrasound specifically looking for vein reflux performed by an ultrasound specialist trained in reflux ultrasound techniques. Not all ultrasound technologists or labs are able to perform a reflux ultrasound.
+ Can vein reflux be treated?
The veins under the skin can be treated by endovenous laser ablation, vein removal (phlebectomy), or injections (sclerotherapy).
+ What causes vein conditions?
Vein conditions can be caused by a variety of things including: a family history of vein conditions, pregnancy, even standing or sitting all day can contribute to the symptoms.
+ Will my vein condition go away?
We will be able to treat the veins that are currently causing the problems. Over time other veins may cause problems and these can be treated easily if they become an issue.
+ How serious is a vein condition?
Although vein reflux and varicose veins are medical conditions, they are rarely life-threatening. However, vein conditions are certainly life-altering since the symptoms can interfere with sleep, exercise, work, and other daily activities.
+ What can compression stockings do for me?
For some patients, compression stockings can help alleviate symptoms; but they will not make the vein condition go away.
+ What should I do if I have varicose veins during pregnancy?
It is recommended to wear thigh-high compression stockings (if tolerated). Treatment of varicose veins should wait until after delivery of the baby.
+ Do I have to go to another location for my ultrasound?
No, we make it very easy for our patients so all testing and ultrasounds are performed at Missouri Vein Care.
+ I don’t have varicose veins, so does that mean I don’t have a vein condition?
No. Most people with a vein condition (80%) do not have visible veins but do have leg or foot symptoms, feel run down or tired, or have poor sleep. The minority with a vein condition (20%) have visible veins.
+ Can varicose veins lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?
It is rare that varicose veins lead to a DVT, which is a serious medical condition where a clot forms in the deep veins of the body; usually the legs. To complete your vein assessment, our vascular technology staff will perform a venous ultrasound to check for DVT as part of your complete evaluation.
+ Do treatments work?
Yes, if you have leg or foot symptoms, feel run down and tired, and have an abnormal refluxing vein on the ultrasound. Our patients have countless stories of better sleeps, energy and health!