subject: Guide To Frequently Asked Questions About Varicose Veins [print this page] Though estimates vary, experts suggest one in seven men, and one in four women, in the U.S. suffer from varicose veins. While there are treatment options available, most people choose to endure the pain, bulging, and other related symptoms. In many cases, the reason is due to a lack of awareness about the condition. With this in mind, we'll provide a quick guide below that answers the most common questions patients ask about varicose veins. The following information may prove valuable if you're suffering from the condition, and looking for a solution.
How Do Varicose Veins Form?
Varicosities occur as the result of an elevated level of pressure within the superficial veins. There are several risk factors that increase the chances you'll develop them.
For example, as noted earlier, the condition affects more women than men, so gender plays a role. Also, if your family has a history of varicose veins, your chances of developing them are higher. Sitting or standing for extended periods of time increases the likelihood pressure will build within the veins. Lastly, valves inside the veins that normally prevent blood from flowing backward may become defective. This can allow the blood to pool.
What Are The Symptoms?
The most common symptoms of varicosities are pain, swelling, and an unsightly bulging. The pain may begin as mild discomfort, and evolve into a persistent dull throb as pooling in the blood vessels worsens. You might also feel cramps and itching. Other common side effects are a "heavy" feeling in the legs (the site of most varicosities), and discoloration.
The severity of your symptoms will depend on the extent of the pooling of blood. They tend to grow worse during the day, and feel most pronounced in the evening.
How Are Varicose Veins Diagnosed?
Your doctor will review your medical history and conduct a thorough physical examination. He or she may then order an ultrasound to further examine the flow of blood through your veins. An ultrasound is noninvasive and completely painless. It is usually sufficient for confirming a diagnosis.
How Are Varicosities Treated?
There are several methods that can be used to resolve varicose veins. Doctors will usually suggest the least invasive approaches first. For example, your physician may recommend elevating your legs or wearing compression stockings to encourage blood flow.
Sclerotherapy, vein ligation, and stripping can also be done. Sclerotherapy involves the injection of a chemical that essentially destroys the blood vessel, and causes it to disappear. During vein ligation, the affected blood vessel is tied off, thereby preventing blood flow through it. Stripping the vein involves removing it from the leg.
There are also newer methods of treatment that can destroy the affected vein, producing a result similar to sclerotherapy. These methods involve laser and radiofrequency ablation. Both cause the blood vessel to collapse and eventually disappear.
How Can I Prevent Them From Worsening?
Elevating your legs will help drain the superficial veins, and thus reduce the pressure inside them. Maintaining a healthy body weight is also helpful. If your job requires you to sit or stand in the same position for long periods, take frequent breaks. As a general rule, take a short walk every ninety minutes to encourage blood flow.
Many experts also recommend increasing your daily fiber intake. This helps prevent constipation, which places additional pressure on the veins.
Can Varicose Veins Cause Serious Problems?
Varicosities can occasionally lead to dangerous problems, including superficial thrombophlebitis, ankle ulcers, bleeding, discoloration, and sores. It's important to note that these complications are rare. When they develop, however, seek medical attention.
For most people, varicose veins represent little more than a cosmetic problem. Treatment is usually done to improve the appearance of the patient's skin. If, however, you experience severe pain or other complications, consult your doctor.
