What are the main causes of varicose veins and spider veins?

Varicose veins and spider veins develop when valves in the veins become weakened or damaged, causing blood to pool. Common causes include genetics (family history), aging, pregnancy, prolonged standing or sitting, obesity, and hormonal changes. Women are more susceptible due to hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menopause, or from birth control use.

How do I know if I need treatment for my varicose veins?

You should consider treatment if you experience symptoms such as leg pain, aching, heaviness, swelling, cramping, restless legs, skin discoloration, or itching around the veins. Even without symptoms, large or bulging varicose veins may benefit from treatment to prevent complications. A consultation with Dr. Figueroa at VeinCentre can determine if treatment is right for you.

What is sclerotherapy and how does it work?

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment where a specialized solution is injected directly into spider veins or small varicose veins. This solution irritates the vein walls, causing them to collapse and seal shut. Blood is then rerouted through healthier veins, and the treated vein is gradually absorbed by the body over several weeks. It's highly effective with a 90%+ success rate.

Are varicose vein treatments covered by OHIP?

Yes, consultations at VeinCentre are OHIP-covered. Treatment coverage depends on medical necessity. If your varicose veins cause symptoms like pain, swelling, or skin changes, treatments like radiofrequency ablation or VenaSeal may be covered by OHIP. Cosmetic treatments for spider veins are typically not covered. Dr. Figueroa will assess your condition and discuss coverage options during your consultation.

How long does a typical vein treatment appointment take?

Treatment duration varies by procedure type. Sclerotherapy typically takes 30-45 minutes, VenaSeal Glue Ablation takes 30-45 minutes, and Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) takes 45-60 minutes. These are outpatient procedures performed in our Toronto or Richmond Hill clinics, allowing you to return home the same day.

Is vein treatment painful?

Modern vein treatments are minimally invasive and well-tolerated. Local anesthesia is used to numb the treatment area, so you'll feel minimal discomfort during the procedure. Most patients describe feeling only slight pressure or mild sensations. Sclerotherapy involves small needle injections that feel like tiny pinches. Post-treatment discomfort is typically mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.

What is the recovery time after vein treatment?

Recovery is quick with modern vein treatments. Sclerotherapy and VenaSeal allow immediate return to normal activities with no compression stockings required after VenaSeal. Radiofrequency Ablation typically requires 1-2 days before returning to work and wearing compression stockings for 1-2 weeks. Walking is encouraged immediately after all procedures to promote healing. Most patients resume regular activities within days.

Can varicose veins come back after treatment?

Treated veins do not reopen once successfully closed. However, new varicose veins can develop in other areas over time due to ongoing genetic factors, aging, or lifestyle conditions. The recurrence rate is low with modern treatments—RFA and VenaSeal have 95%+ success rates. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and wearing compression stockings when needed can help prevent new vein problems.

How many treatment sessions will I need?

The number of sessions depends on the severity and extent of your vein condition. Many patients see significant improvement after just one treatment session. Spider veins may require 2-3 sclerotherapy sessions spaced several weeks apart for optimal results. Larger varicose veins treated with RFA or VenaSeal typically require only one session per vein. Dr. Figueroa will create a personalized treatment plan during your consultation.

What should I expect during my first consultation?

During your OHIP-covered consultation at VeinCentre, Dr. Figueroa will review your medical history, examine your legs, and may perform an ultrasound to assess vein health and blood flow. You'll discuss your symptoms, treatment goals, and concerns. Dr. Figueroa will explain which treatment options are best suited for your condition—whether sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, or VenaSeal—and answer all your questions about the procedure, recovery, and expected results.

¿Qué es el pie diabético y cómo prevenir complicaciones graves?

15 may 2025

2 min de lectura

La diabetes afecta a más de 3 millones de personas en Canadá, y una de sus complicaciones más graves es el pie diabético. En Ontario Vascular, muchas personas no saben que una pequeña ampolla o herida puede convertirse en un problema serio si no se trata a tiempo.

¿Qué es el pie diabético?

El “pie diabético” incluye diversos problemas causados por la neuropatía diabética (daño en los nervios) y la mala circulación. Estos factores pueden:

Disminuir la sensibilidad en los pies
Retrasar la cicatrización de heridas
Aumentar el riesgo de infecciones

Incluso una lesión pequeña puede causar una úlcera o, en casos graves, gangrena o amputación.

Señales de advertencia

Debido a la pérdida de sensibilidad, es importante observar:

Enrojecimiento, hinchazón o calor
Heridas que no sanan
Uñas gruesas o descoloridas
Piel seca o agrietada
Cambios en la forma o color del pie
Adormecimiento u hormigueo

Consejos para prevenir complicaciones

✅ Revise sus pies todos los díasBusque heridas, ampollas o signos de infección. Use un espejo o pida ayuda si es necesario.

✅ Controle el azúcar en sangreMantener niveles estables mejora la circulación y la curación.

✅ Use calzado especial para diabetesEvite andar descalzo o usar zapatos ajustados.

✅ Corte las uñas con cuidadoCórtelas rectas y no demasiado cortas para evitar uñas encarnadas.

✅ Hidrate sus piesEvite la resequedad, pero no aplique crema entre los dedos.

✅ Visite a un especialista vascularUna ecografía Doppler puede detectar problemas circulatorios a tiempo.

¿Cuándo consultar a un especialista?

Busque atención médica si nota:

Heridas que no sanan
Cambios en el color de la piel
Sensación de frío o adormecimiento en los pies

Una evaluación temprana puede ayudar a prevenir complicaciones graves y conservar la movilidad.

Consulte siempre con un profesional de salud con licencia.

Este blog tiene como objetivo brindar información general y no debe considerarse como asesoramiento médico. Siempre consulte con un profesional de la salud si tiene problemas de salud específicos.