What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen, and distorted, often blue or dark purple in color. They occur when defective valves in the veins allow blood to flow or pool in the wrong direction. Many people consider it as a cosmetic concern, but for others, it is a painful and uncomfortable condition affecting their daily lives.
Symptoms of Varicose veins
Visible Veins:
Dark purple or blue veins, usually on the legs.
Physical Discomfort:
- Stiffness, swelling, weightiness, and discomfort around swollen veins.
- Tight or achy sensation in the legs.
Severe Cases:
- Substantial bleeding from the veins.
- Ulcers can form in extreme cases.
Appearance:
Twisted and bulging veins, resembling cords on your thighs.
Leg Sensations:
Burning, throbbing, muscle cramping, and swelling in the lower leg.
Activity-Related Symptoms:
Worsened discomfort after prolonged sitting or standing.
Skin Changes:
- Itching along one or more veins.
- Changes in skin color around the varicose veins.
Causes of Varicose veins
Valve Malfunction:
- Varicose veins develop when veins do not function properly.
- Veins have one-way valves that prevent the backward flow of blood.
Blood Pooling:
In varicose veins, the blood pools in the veins instead of flowing to the heart. This occurs due to the failure of the one-way valves.
Gravity's Effect:
Veins farthest from the heart are more affected. Gravity makes it harder for blood to flow upwards.
Vein Changes:
As a result, veins enlarge, swell, or twist.
Leg Damage:
In some cases, varicose veins can cause damage to the legs.
Diagnosing Varicose Veins
Physical Exam:
- Doctor visually examines conditions in standing and sitting positions.
- Explanation of symptoms in detail may be required.
Test for Varicose Veins:
Venous Doppler Ultrasound:
- Non-invasive test using a small hand-held device.
- Conducted on an out-patient basis.
- Uses sound waves to check blood flow across vein valves.
Risk Factors for Varicose Veins
Age Factor:
The risk of varicose veins increases with age. Aging causes wear and tear on the valves that help control blood flow. This wear can cause valves to allow blood to flow back into the veins, leading to pooling.
Sex Issues:
Women have a higher risk of developing varicose veins. Female hormones can relax vein walls, making them more susceptible. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, pre-menstruation, or menopause can contribute. Hormone therapies, such as birth control pills, can increase the risk.
Pregnancy Problems:
Pregnancy increases the amount of blood in the body. This supports the developing fetus but can cause swollen veins in the legs. Hormonal shifts during pregnancy also play a role.
Being Overweight:
Extra weight places additional strain on your veins.
Prolonged Standing or Sitting:
Standing or sitting for long periods can hinder blood flow. Blood flow is less efficient when you remain in the same position for extended periods.
Complications of Varicose Veins
Venous Ulcers:
Painful ulcers can develop near varicose veins, particularly near the ankles. Typically, a discolored patch on the skin precedes the emergence of an ulcer. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect you have developed an ulcer.
Blood Clots:
Veins deep inside the legs can sometimes become widened. This can cause pain and swelling in the affected leg. Any recurrent leg pain or swelling requires medical attention, as it may indicate a blood clot, a condition known as thrombophlebitis.
Hemorrhages:
Occasionally, veins very close to the skin can burst, causing mild bleeding. Medical attention is needed for any bleeding, no matter how mild.
Tips to Reduce Varicose Veins Formation
- Exercise Regularly
- Maintain a Healthy Weight
- Eat a Low-Salt, High-Fiber Diet
- Avoid High Heels and Tight Clothing
- Elevate Your Legs
- Regularly Change Sitting or Standing Positions
Treatment for Varicose Veins
At Medicover Hospitals, we offer comprehensive varicose veins treatment with the Best Varicose Veins specialists in India, serving at various locations across the country listed below:
- Varicose Vein Treatment in Hyderabad
- Varicose Vein Treatment in Kakinada
- Varicose Vein Treatment in Vizag
- Varicose Vein Treatment in Pune
Self-Care and Lifestyle Changes:
- Avoid standing for long durations.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Exercise to boost circulation.
- Use compression socks or stockings.
- Elevate your legs when resting or sleeping.
Compression Therapy:
- Wear special compression stockings to improve blood flow and reduce swelling.
- Consult your doctor for the appropriate compression level.
Surgical Options:
- Ligation and stripping: Removal of the varicose vein through small incisions under anesthesia.
- Less invasive, updated versions of vein-stripping surgeries are available.
Dos and Don’ts
With every medical condition, there are medical, dietary, and lifestyle guidelines to help you manage it with ease.
Varicose veins require adherence to certain lifestyle changes and treatment protocols to manage symptoms and achieve the best outcomes.
| Do’s | Don’ts |
| Exercise regularly | Do heavy exercises |
| Eat a healthy diet | Eat junk foods |
| Elevate legs | Stand or sit in one position for a long time |
| Use Compression stockings | Follow fashion statement |
| Massage your feet | Maintain heavy weight |
Get to know more specific instructions from your consulting doctor based on your unique condition.
