Varicose vein

What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are abnormally enlarged superficial veins usually seen in the thigh and leg. They connect with the deep veins of the leg and play a minor role in the transfer of blood to the heart. They more commonly appear in females in their 30’s and 40’s.

What generally happens to varicose veins?
They usually worsen over time, swelling and becoming more noticeable. They eventually engorge with blood and can cause pain and itching. After too long, varicose veins most likely won't go away by themselves.

What causes varicose veins?
The cause of varicose veins is unknown but is linked to increased pressure in the veins. When valves in the veins become damaged, the blood flows backwards and causes swelling.

Who can get varicose veins?
Pregnant women people with obesity, prolonged standing, or trauma. Varicose veins are more common in females.

What are symptoms of varicose veins?
Leg aches are normally experienced. After too long, feelings of fatigue, heaviness, aching, burning, throbbing, itching, cramping, and restlessness of the legs may occur. Darkening around the ankles is a classic feature of prolonged varicose veins.

How can varicose veins be diagnosed?
Varicose veins can usually be diagnosed by a simple physical examination. A painless test called the Doppler ultrasound assesses the valve function in the groin and determines how much blood is flowing back into the legs, as well as the presence of blood clots.

What is treatment of varicose veins?
If the vein is very thick and rope-like, stripping may be the best option. If only the valve in the vein is defective, the vein can be tied off in the groin and the few superficial veins can be removed by small incisions. The latest method is using ultrasound with laser or radiofrequency ablation, both of which involves burning away the vein and are painless.

Are varicose veins serious?
They're usually a cosmetic issue. Varicose veins generally get worse without treatment and may cause itching, pigmentation around the ankles, ulcers at the ankles, mild swelling of the feet, occasional blood clots in the veins, and infection of the vein.

Can one prevent varicose veins?
You can prevent them if you start early. The best way is to exercise and wear compression stockings. Try and elevate your legs at all times, and do not stand for long periods of time. Don't cross your legs when sitting, and wear elastic support stockings.

What problems can occur if left untreated?
Most people with varicose veins do not develop complications. Complications are related to the duration of the vein. They include:

• Superficial thrombophlebitis- vein is inflamed and tender, a clot is usually present in the vein
• Bleeding
• Venous Eczema-the skin around the vein may become dry and itchy
• Venous Pigmentation- skin around the ankle stained brown due to leakage of blood from the veins into the skin
• Venous Ulceration- ulcers at the ankle