aricose veins are very common but treatments are rarely available on the NHS. If you are thinking about having your veins treated then you will probably need to go to a private medical clinic to see a Vascular Surgeon or Vascular Interventional Radiologist, like our Dr Mo Faris, here at the Cooden Medical Group.
Wherever you go, it’s important that you feel comfortable and confident with both the clinic and the clinician who will be doing the procedure. Many clinics offer the opportunity to visit to find out more about the treatments and to talk to the medical practitioners about the procedures. Dr Faris says: “You must ask as many questions as you like – when it comes to your health there’s no such thing as a silly question, so do ask anything, however trivial it might seem.”
Dr Faris suggests that you make a list of questions to bring along to your first appointment. “It can sometimes be a little overwhelming on your initial visit and something that you really wanted to find out may slip your mind. Having a checklist to hand will help you to make sure that you get all the information you need to make an informed decision about having a medical procedure.”
Here are some questions you might want to ask at your first appointment.
- What are the benefits and risks of the different treatment options?
- • Which kind of treatment is most suitable for me?
- • How is the treatment carried out?
- • How long will it take?
- • Who will be doing the procedure and what experience do they have?
- • Where will the procedure be carried out? Is it possible to see the room?
- • How many appointments will I need altogether?
- • Will I need any tests beforehand? If so, what will they be?
- • Will I be able to walk and drive afterwards?
- • Is there anything I should avoid doing after my treatment?
- • Does the cost of the treatment include all the tests and aftercare?
- • What will my veins look like afterwards?
- • How long will it take to completely recover?
When you visit you will also meet other members of staff who may be looking after you during your treatment. If they are friendly and go out of their way to put you at ease then that is a good indication of a well-run establishment. You shouldn’t feel under any pressure to commit to having a medical procedure – it is absolutely fine to go away and digest all the information and perhaps discuss with your family before making any decisions. If you have further questions then you should be able to call the clinic and talk to someone.
Cooden Medical Group offer treatments for varicose veins and vascular problems. Book a consultation with a specialist at one of our clinics in Bexhill, Canterbury or East Grinstead.
