In recent years, there has been a growing curiosity over the relationship between varicose veins and air travel. Serious cases of varicose veins can cause deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can be aggravated by air travel of more than 4 hours. Experts think that reduced cabin pressure at high altitudes, very little movement, and dehydration contribute to DVT’s occurrence in air travel in recent years. A DVT can be fatal if left untreated. A DVT can also happen during land travel (bus, car, or train), as sitting in one position for too long is considered a major factor in its occurrence.
Treatment of Varicose Veins
Effective varicose vein treatment includes a combination of lifestyle changes and an individual receiving the appropriate treatment from a quality vein clinic.
Often the first line of treatment for varicose veins is changes to lifestyle, including:
– Avoiding sitting or standing for extended periods of time
– Changing routines so that everyday life is more physically active
– Losing weight if overweight
Varicose vein treatment involving medical procedures includes:
– Sclerotherapy: In this varicose vein treatment, the doctor uses a tiny needle to inject a sclerosant solution into the vein, which closes it off. The vein is then absorbed by the body and fades away naturally. We often use this procedure to treat spider veins.
– Radiofrequency Ablation: This is another popular procedure for treatment of varicose veins involving the application of a minimally invasive catheter inserted into a vein.
– Phlebectomy: In this procedure, the doctor makes tiny incisions to remove small varicose veins that are closest to the skin surface. This is done in a doctor’s vein clinic under local anesthesia. Our doctor can complete this procedure in just one visit, with very minimal downtime for patients.
If you’re worried about traveling with varicose veins, consider talking to a vein specialist about your concerns.
PORTLAND, OR 97255
Phone: (503) 296-4030
Fax: (503) 216-2488