Varicose veins affect millions of adults each year for a variety of reasons. Whether it is a genetic predisposition, sending an exorbitant amount of time on the feet, or the natural aging process, varicose veins are an often uncomfortable, unsightly problem. As the vein walls break down within the body, blood begins to pool and cause bulging beneath the skin and the flow of blood to move in the opposite direction. This creates pressure on the legs and feet, dark blue or purple gnarled veins, and swelling and pain that can be difficult to treat on one’s own.
Surgery for some varicose vein diagnoses is available through vein specialists and medically trained doctors, and while surgical intervention helps reduce the look and discomfort of broken veins, it takes time to heal post procedure. Varicose vein surgery may cause bruising and pain throughout the treatment site, leaving individuals tired, achy, and swollen for an extended period of time after the treatment is complete. Eddie Chaloner, vein specialist at a leading clinic in London, recommends four at-home remedies that help with healing after varicose vein surgery. Read more about arnica, Ibuleve gel, Vitamin E oil, and Boi oil to see which remedy may best serve you after varicose vein intervention.
Arnica
As a plant extract derived from a member of the daisy flower family, Arnica has been used as an at home remedy for reducing the coloring and signs of bruises for centuries. Arnica works to reduce inflammation of a treated area after varicose vein surgery while also helping improve circulation. The solution to unattractive or painful bruising comes in both a gel and cream form that is applied topically, as well as a pill that can be digested easily. When using arnica after surgery, take care not to apply or ingest too much at one time. The majority of arnica gels, creams, and pills are dosed low enough for any major side effects to be non-issues.
Ibuleve Gel
Ibuleve gel is a common at home remedy after varicose vein surgery for the purpose of reducing soreness and bruising at the treatment site. This gel consists of 10% Ibuprofen – an anti-inflammatory drug that is sold over the counter. When applied, Ibuleve gel works to block the action of certain enzymes in the body in an attempt to reduce pain or swelling. In its gel form, Ibuleve can be applied directly to the bruised or painful area to help reduce discomfort. If you are also taking a pain reliever as prescribed, make sure to check with your doctor before applying Ibuleve gel in addition.
Vitamin E Oil
Similar to other post surgery suggestions, Vitamin E oil is a simple at-home fix for heavy bruising which is common with varicose vein procedures. Vitamin E is known to have healing components, like antioxidants, which help improve circulation in the area where oil is applied. Typically, Vitamin E is sold in capsule form, but one can easily break the pill to get directly to the oil which can then be applied directly to the skin.
Bio Oil
Chaloner also suggests using bio oil after varicose vein surgery to improve the process the healing. Bio oil contains several compounds that work in tandem to reduce scarring and other blemishes to the skin. Similar to Vitamin E oil, bio oil holds powerful anti-oxidants that are purported to boost the chemicals and building blocks necessary for healing of the skin. Bio oil is sold without a prescription, but it can be slightly more expensive than other at home remedies.
Even though varicose vein surgery requires some downtime for a full recovery, utilizing one or more of these at home solutions allows individuals to get back to living the life they love quickly – and without varicose veins.