Winter months trigger varicose veins, so what can you do to protect yourself?
Varicose veins is a condition in which the veins under the skin appear blue in color, expand and curl. Initially, swelling is observed with the expansion of the veins but over time large vein groups may form and even burst as symptoms worsen. While varicose veins first cause only aesthetic discomfort, they may lead to pain and swelling as they progress. If venous insufficiency develops, swelling occurs in the legs. If a clot accumulates on varicose veins (thrombophlebitis), symptoms such as pain, swelling and redness can be seen in the legs.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Many factors can contribute to the development of varicose veins including
➤ Pregnancy
➤ Obesity
➤ Standing for long periods
➤ Certain professions
➤ Being a woman
➤ Birth control pills and hormone treatments
➤ Wearing tight clothes
➤ Constipation
➤ Aging
➤ Genetic predisposition
Varicose veins occur due to the insufficient functioning of vein valves. The blood flows backward and accumulates leading to increased pressure and swelling in the vein. Over time the veins dilate and form folds. Venous insufficiency can occur at any level of the veins from the groin area to lower sections of the legs.
Sometimes varicose veins are caused by a blockage of a vein by a clot. In this case blood accumulates behind the blocked vein causing dilation.
What Are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins?
The main symptoms of varicose veins include
➤ Blue and purple swelling in the legs
➤ Strain or heaviness in the legs
➤ Swelling in the legs
➤ Tingling in the legs
➤ Itching
Are There Different Types of Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are classified into three main types
Capillary Varicose Veins (Telangiectasia)
➤ Appear as spider web-like veins
➤ Common in young women pregnancy or hormone therapy
Reticular Varicose Veins
➤ Mostly seen behind the knee and around the ankle
➤ Blue-colored slightly raised and smaller
Large Vein Varicose Veins
➤ Occur due to saphenous vein insufficiency
➤ Bulge prominently through the skin and appear greenish
➤ Contain all symptoms of varicose veins
Do Varicose Veins Cause Serious Problems?
At first varicose veins only cause aesthetic discomfort but if left untreated they can lead to
➤ Intense pain in the legs
➤ Vein infections
➤ Rupture of the varicose vein leading to bleeding
➤ Blood clot formation which can travel to the lungs and cause pulmonary embolism
How Is Varicose Vein Treatment Performed?
Several treatment options are available
Surgical Removal (Traditional Method)
➤ Oldest treatment method
➤ Long recovery period
Foam Sclerotherapy
➤ Foam injection into the vein
➤ High recurrence rate
Laser Treatment
➤ A catheter is inserted into the vein and laser light burns the vein
➤ Uses local anesthesia
➤ Short recovery time
Radiofrequency Treatment
➤ Radio waves generate heat destroying the vein
➤ Performed with local anesthesia
➤ Patients can leave the hospital the same day
How to Prevent Varicose Veins?
To reduce the risk of varicose veins consider the following
➤ Engage in regular exercise (running walking cycling swimming)
➤ Avoid standing or sitting for long periods
➤ Maintain a healthy weight
➤ Do not sit cross-legged for long periods
➤ Avoid tight and restrictive clothing
➤ Wear comfortable supportive shoes instead of high heels
➤ Consume high-fiber foods to prevent constipation
➤ Rest with your legs elevated after prolonged standing
➤ Avoid hot springs as they can accelerate varicose vein formation
➤ Use compression stockings if you have a genetic predisposition or a job that requires prolonged standing
➤ Massage other parts of the legs rather than directly on varicose veins
➤ During long travels take breaks to move around
By following these preventive measures you can reduce the risk of developing varicose veins and alleviate existing symptoms.
