VARICOSE VEINS A GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING AND PREVENTING THEM
Varicose veins are a common problem that can affect individuals of all ages. About half of people over the age of 40 have some degree of varicose veins, and though most people don’t experience symptoms, they can cause serious health problems in the long-term. In this article, we will cover a few ways to identify varicose veins and what you can do to prevent them from getting worse. We'll also discuss treatments available if you find that they're interfering with your daily life.
WHAT ARE VARICOSE VEINS?
When the veins become swollen, enlarged and tortuous, we call them varicose veins. They're often seen as a blue or purple bulge, and they can be painful if they're near any joints. The good news is that varicose veins don't always have to be treated with surgery. Your doctor will determine whether you need treatment by examining your symptoms and checking your history of the problem.
Why do we develop varicose veins?
Normally veins carry impure blood back to the heart from various parts of the bodyand most of the veins have specialised valves within their walls which enable one way directional flow of blood towards the heart; Due to weakness in these valves or the vein wall itself, this one way flow mechanism is lost resulting in the reversal of blood flow towards the feet. This causes the veins to bulge and all complications of varicose veins.
Symptoms of varicose vein:
Varicose veins may cause aches and cramps in the legs especially calves. They may also notice swelling of their feet and ankles; Skin discoloration, eczema, bleeding and ulceration are the signs of advanced stages of varicose veins. However, for majority of people with varicose veins, there may be no symptoms.
Diagnosis of varicose veins : Following physical examination to assess the distribution of the varicose veins and checking pulses to make sure there is no problem with arterial blood circulation, a Doppler ultrasound test is usually done to confirm the diagnosis and exclude any blood clots.
TREATMENTS FOR VARICOSE VEINS
Luckily, there are a number of treatments available to help prevent and reduce the appearance of varicose veins.
Lifestyle changes: One of the most effective ways to prevent or reduce the appearance of varicose veins is by making lifestyle changes that can reduce pressure on your veins. This includes quitting smoking, avoiding prolonged sitting, and losing weight. These three changes alone can help relieve some pressure on your veins and make them less noticeable. Also toe and ankle exercises help to strengthen calf muscles which in turn aid in venous circulation.
Compression stockings: Is often the first line of treatment in patients with varicose veins; Appropriate stockings will support calf muscles and prevent reversal of blood flow by steadily squeezing the blood towards the heart
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) or Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Now the standard procedure of choice for patients needing intervention. It is minimally invasive with no scars usually done under local anesthesia and highly effective. Heat from Laser or radiofrequency energy is used to irritate the inner lining of the diseased vein which eventually scars off. Blood is then redirected towards healthier veins.
Foam Sclerotherapy: In this procedure, a doctor injects a chemical solution into the vein which causes it to collapse and eventually disappear. This treatment is typically reserved for smaller residual veins after laser treatment says Dr.Venu Gopal Kulkarni MS, MRCS, FRCS Consultant Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon STAR Hospitals
HOW TO PREVENT VARICOSE VEINS FROM GETTING WORSE?
Varicose veins can be prevented with a few easy steps like
- Managing the weight appropriately,
- Regular walking and exercises which include strengthening calf muscles
- Avoiding prolonged standing and sitting on the chair. Elevation of limbs will help.
- Regular wear of compression stockings alleviate pressure on your veins.
- You should also avoid crossing your legs.
- Skin care with regular moisturising lotion twice a day
Book Appointment: Dr.Venu Gopal Kulkarni MS, MRCS, FRCS Consultant Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon STAR Hospitals
Disclaimer: Welthi.com does not guarantee any specific results as a result of the procedures mentioned here, and the results may vary from person to person.
