Varicose Veins are swollen, twisted, and lengthened veins. They appear as bulging cords just underneath the skin mostly in the legs and feet. It is the superficial network of diseased veins in the legs that can be seen or felt as abnormal. Veins are structured with one-way valves to push deoxygenated blood from the legs to the heart. Deep veins can sustain their function of pushing up the blood even if the valves fail because of the supportive contractile function of the surrounding muscles. Hence, interior veins are rarely varicose. Surface veins depend entirely on the valves to maintain the upward flow of blood. Failure of venous valves leads to the pooling of blood with increased pressure and congestion, making the veins swell and distort.
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Causes
Varicose Veins is a common condition with a predisposing family trait. Undue pressure on the legs or abdomen over prolonged periods can cause varicose veins. Obesity, Pregnancy, and long hours of standing work are some of the more common conditions of pressure inducers. People with tumors and chronic constipation are also susceptible to Varicose Veins. A sedentary lifestyle and weakening of veins with age or injury can also contribute to the cause of Varicose Veins. Upon diagnosis, experts recommend getting high-class varicose veins treatment in Chennai.
Signs and Symptoms
- – Purple or blue coloured veins seen through the skin
- – Cord like twisted, bumpy structures felt beneath the skin of the legs
- – Aching pain or heaviness in legs
- – Feeling of burning, throbbing or cramping of muscles with petal oedema
- – Severity of pain after prolonged sitting or standing
- – Skin may get itchy around the area of the veins
- – Patchy skin discoloration surrounding the veins
- – Spider veins which look like red or blue spider webs very close and clear on the skin are at times an indication of further varicose veins
Diagnosis/Evaluation
Family History – prevalence of Varicose Veins among siblings or ancestors increases the likelihood of the condition in an individual. Strong family history and positive signs give an inclination for Varicose Veins.
Personal History – Recent changes in the body such as weight gain due to pregnancy or menopause, traumatic injury if any, and workplace postural requirements need to be briefed to the doctor.
Physical Examination – The doctor will inspect and palpate the affected limb for signs of tenderness, bleeding, or ulcers. The presence of Varicose Veins can be more easily examined while standing for a while.
Ultrasound – This allows the doctor to know how well blood flows through the vein. It also helps in marking the areas of the venous network to determine the requirement and the type of intervention.
Venogram – A venogram may further be suggested to study the functional capacity of the vein. This can also rule out the presence of blood clots or blocks that may not allow the blood to flow.
The best treatment for varicose veins at Laser Vein Clinic
Treatment – If Varicose Veins or Spider Veins are just a cosmetic concern, there is no absolute treatment necessary. Management may involve the following:
- – Weight Loss
- – Exercise
- – Compression stockings
- – Ergonomic modifications
However, in severe cases accompanied by pain, ulcers,, and dermatitis, invasive techniques need to be considered. The effectiveness and safety of various techniques may be best discussed with the surgeon before choosing the appropriate treatment. The surgeon may suggest a suitable method depending on the symptoms, affected Vein, its size, and location. Vein ligation and Stripping being the conventional option, advanced less invasive procedures include:
- – Sclerotherapy
- – Laser Surgery
- – Endo venous ablation therapy
- – Endoscopic Vein Surgery
- – Vena Seal Closure system
- – Surgery