varicose veins

Hi, doc, i have pretty bad varicose veins, bulging bluish like in my left leg. How do you treat theseand is it usually successful. They do not look good and are at times painful. I think it is time for me to get this tended to! Does insurance companys cover this? Do they just see it as being cosmetic. kay. thank you doc for any input.

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

Varicosities are treated by general or vascular surgeons.  Treatment varies from injections to external laser therapy to endovascular laser therapy to vein stripping.  You need to be evaluated by a specialist in this area for the proper treatment.  In the absence of functional problems like chronic pain, edema or ulcers, insurance coverage may be a problem.  A consultation will determine the liklihood of insurance coverage.