Five Basic Questions to Ask Your Vein Doctor

By Dr. Edward Mackay

April 24, 2023


If you have symptoms of varicose veins or other vascular disorders in your lower extremities, enlist the expertise and skill of an experienced vein doctor. For your consultation, be prepared with a list of your concerns and symptoms and also questions you wish to ask.

Let’s look at some suggested questions so you are well informed about your condition and possible treatment options and where you can go for outstanding vascular care in Tampa, FL.

1. Why Do I Have These Symptoms?

Most people seek the advice of a vein specialist because they have ugly and uncomfortable varicose veins. The American Heart Association reports that almost 25 percent of adults in the United States complain of the burning, itching, fatigue, cramping, and twisted, rope-like appearance of these poorly functioning leg veins.

The reasons why develop varicose veins and other problems related to chronic venous insufficiency, or CVI, vary. Common cause000s include heredity, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, gender (more women than men), heavy lifting, smoking, and obesity.

Your vein specialist will do a complete review of your medical history and symptoms. Additional in-office testing will reveal the extent of your condition and help determine a course of action.

2. Do I Need Surgery?

That’s a common concern. People want relief from the aesthetic and somatic problems associated with vascular problems. However, the idea of complex surgery with extended downtime is understandably scary.

Fortunately, today’s vascular surgeons know many ways to treat varicose veins, spider veins, chronic venous insufficiency, leg ulcers, and other more serious issues related to poor circulation. In fact, these knowledgeable providers prefer the most conservative treatments possible.

Plus, many patients do well with changes in their weight, activity, diet, and more. So, expect your vein doctor to educate you on your particular condition and outline the available treatments and most likely outcomes.

3. How Many Vein Treatments Have You Performed?

Your vein doctor should readily answer this question. You, as the patient, have the right to know if the provider is skilled in handling your particular issue. Thankfully, vascular surgeons perform many of today’s most innovative treatments, including radio frequency ablation, endovenous laser treatments, sclerotherapy, and more.

4. Will I Be Hospitalized for My Vein Procedure?

Most vein procedures are in-office. However, more complicated surgeries, such as vein stripping (ligation), may be done in the hospital on an outpatient basis or could require a hospital stay, particularly if the patient has pre-existing medical conditions. Again, the details of your particular case and your unique health needs will determine the course and location of your vein treatment.

5. How Can I Keep My Varicose Veins from Returning?

While some people have a genetic predisposition for vein problems, many vein patients can reduce their risk factors with changes to their activity levels, diet, tobacco and alcohol habits, and more. When you discuss your treatment plan at the vein clinic, you will learn what day-to-daypractices will benefit your vascular health and circulation. While nothing is 100 percent guaranteed, at-home strategies improve your chances of having better circulation and physical appearance.

Your Experienced Vein Doctor in Tampa, FL

If you are looking to have vein surgery on your legs and live in the Tampa Bay area, consider seeing the vein specialists at Edward G. Mackay & Associates. Our compassionate and skilled team of providers is proud to offer cutting-edge treatments for varicose veins, including sclerotherapy, laser therapy, radio frequency ablation, and more.

To know more about our comprehensive services, call us today at (727) 527-2888. You can also request an appointment online at your convenience.

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The Trusted Vein Expert in Tampa