Varicose veins
Hi, all! I'm a very active 42-year-old female who has been living with varicose veins and the related problems for about 25 years now. I feel heartbroken when I read all your stories at your young ages, and I need to tell you I can relate. The good news is there are more methods available now than were available to me, or my mother, or even my grandmother. Obviously, my condition is hereditary, but I remain active and keep a regular fitness routine.
My veins are the worst in my right leg and calf, but both legs are definitely in poor condition. I have seen various specialists and physicians who have performed numerous tests, Doppler studies, etc. I have worn compression hose (ugly!)and have had sclerotherapy twice. I am speaking to another specialist who recommends that I have a different treatment to remove the largest varicose veins in my right leg in a few weeks, but it sounds very painful...basically, he'll burn them off! This is frightening to me, and apparently it can leaves marks, and small scars. But the worst insult is that on top of it, I will face a huge medical bill. I have group insurance through my employer, but the problem is finding a plan that will cover something more than sclerotherapy which will no longer treat my severe veins.
Or better yet, what about funding research to improve the vein treatment options, or even begin to find a cure!? This is an awful thing to live with, painful, ugly, embarrassing, and it just seems hopeless.
Oh, I forgot to mention, I have never been pregnant, and my veins are worse than many who have had numerous children. Thanks for listening. It's great to find a discussion group to share with!
From:
magwheels@discoveromaha.com
