What does a vein specialist do? and other FAQs
Are you looking for a vein specialist but don’t know exactly what they do, what conditions they treat, or what kinds of treatments they perform? Well, this article puts together a number of common questions patients ask. Read on to find out everything you need to know about vein specialists.
- What is a vein specialist?
- What kind of doctor treats varicose veins and spider veins?
- What’s the difference between varicose veins and spider veins?
- Can my cardiologist treat my varicose veins?
- Are varicose veins a danger to health? What about spider veins?
- When should I be concerned about varicose veins?
- What are the treatments for varicose veins?
- How can I find the best vein doctor near me?
What is a vein specialist?
“Vein specialist” is an umbrella term for doctors who diagnose and treat venous disorders. These specialists have specific medical training and generally fall into two broad categories:
- Phlebologists—doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of superficial vein conditions, such as varicose veins and spider veins. They use minimally invasive methods such as sclerotherapy, laser ablation, and radiofrequency treatments.
- Vascular surgeons—doctors with comprehensive surgical training who can also treat more complex problems of the vascular system and perform major surgery when necessary.
If you have advanced-stage varicose veins, it’s ideal to choose a vein specialist with dual specialization in both phlebology and vascular surgery.
What kind of doctor treats varicose veins and spider veins?
If you have spider veins, which are more of an aesthetic problem without major health risks, you can visit a phlebologist. He or she will most likely suggest microsclerotherapy, a simple procedure that removes visible veins painlessly.
If you have varicose veins, you’ll need a more complex treatment plan. You can go to either a phlebologist or a vascular surgeon, but it’s best to choose a doctor with dual experience, such as Dr. Omar Abu-Bakr, so that you have all treatment methods at your disposal.
What’s the difference between varicose veins and spider veins?
Many patients confuse these two types of conditions, so let’s take a look at what each one is:
- Varicose veins (chronic venous insufficiency) are a mechanical vein disorder. What happens: blood stops circulating properly through the affected veins and tends to stagnate. If left untreated, this problem can lead to serious complications such as venous ulcers or thrombophlebitis (blood clots). In other words, varicose veins are a serious medical condition.
- Spider veins are fine, visible veins under the skin, usually red or blue, that appear like a spiderweb. They are cosmetic and do not cause serious complications if left untreated. However, it is very important to keep in mind that one-third to half of patients with spider veins also have hidden varicose veins, which should be treated first before any cosmetic procedure.
Can my cardiologist treat my varicose veins?
If your doctor is both a cardiologist and a vein specialist, it’s a good sign! This doctor can diagnose and treat the root cause of varicose veins. However, when choosing a cardiologist for treatment, make sure they specialize in minimally invasive procedures such as radiofrequency ablation, endovenous laser ablation, sclerotherapy etc.
Are varicose veins a danger to health? What about spider veins?
Varicose veins can lead to serious complications if left untreated:
- Venous thrombosis (blood clots): can be fatal. A clot may travel through the bloodstream and cause a pulmonary embolism (clot in the lungs) or a stroke.
- Venous ulcers: commonly occur on the lower leg. They are difficult to treat, may have a foul odor, cause severe pain, and significantly affect the quality of life of patients and their families.
Spider veins, on the other hand, are not dangerous to your health and are primarily a cosmetic concern. However, they can affect self-esteem and mental health. If you can live with them and they don’t bother you, treatment is not necessary.
When should I be concerned about varicose veins?
Varicose veins are generally not a good sign. If you experience symptoms such as swollen legs, pain or heaviness, burning sensation, itching, changes in skin color, you should see a doctor immediately.
Varicose veins usually indicate chronic venous insufficiency, a serious circulatory disorder with potential long-term complications. Ignoring this condition can severely impact your quality of life and that of your family. In advanced stages, venous ulcers can cause unbearable pain, reduced mobility, and social isolation.
What are the treatments for varicose veins?
Vein specialists may recommend several types of treatment depending on the severity of the problem:
Non-invasive treatments
The latest method is SONOVEIN, based on High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU). This technique uses focused ultrasound waves that penetrate the vein wall and generate heat. Water in the vein cells absorbs the energy, causing controlled cell destruction and contraction of collagen fibers. The treated vein closes and is naturally absorbed by the body without incisions and with minimal local anesthesia.
Minimally invasive treatments
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA): An image-guided catheter is inserted into the vein, which heats it using a laser. The vein walls are destroyed, and the body gradually absorbs the vein over time.
Endovenous Microwave Ablation (EMWA): Similar to EVLA but uses microwaves instead of lasers. It does not require direct contact with the vein wall; instead, it generates an electromagnetic field that ablates the vein.
Discover more varicose vein treatments here.
Surgical treatment
When varicose veins are very advanced or do not respond to minimally invasive methods, the vascular surgeon may recommend tailored surgical procedures. Treatment is personalized for each patient, depending on vein anatomy, the degree of damage and overall health.
How can I find the best vein doctor near me?
We know it’s hard to choose the right vein specialist when you have so many options. However, here are some tips:
- Make sure the doctor is board-certified and specializes in phlebology or vascular surgery.
- Check if they have real experience in minimally invasive treatments and the use of modern technologies.
- Look for testimonials and reviews about the doctor, not just the clinic. Other patients’ experiences will show you how the doctor communicates, how the treatment goes and how satisfied people are.
- Find out about the methods they use. A great specialist will clearly explain all your options.
Are you from the UK?
Meet Dr. Omar, a doctor with over 18 years of experience treating varicose veins and spider veins. His patients speak highly of his professionalism, empathy and excellent results. See what his patients say, and if you’re convinced, book a consultation today!
