Overview
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that usually appear on the legs due to poor valve function. They can cause heaviness, pain, swelling, or just be a cosmetic concern. Common triggers include aging, standing for long periods, pregnancy, and family history. Diagnosis is simple, often involving an ultrasound. Treatments like sclerotherapy, laser treatment, and minor surgery are effective. Staying active, wearing compression stockings, and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage or prevent them.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that often appear dark blue or purple and bulge just under the skin’s surface. Most commonly found in the legs, these veins develop when the one-way valves inside the veins fail to function properly. Instead of directing blood upward toward the heart, the weakened valves allow blood to flow backward and pool in the veins. This leads to increased pressure, swelling, and a visibly distended appearance.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins can result from a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. The veins in the legs have the most pressure due to gravity, making them more prone to varicosities. Common causes include:
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Age:
Aging naturally weakens vein walls and valves, reducing their efficiency.
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Standing for prolonged periods:
People in occupations like nursing, teaching, or retail often stand for long hours, which increases vein pressure.
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Excess weight:
Being overweight puts extra stress on the veins, especially in the lower extremities.
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Family history of varicose veins:
Genetics plays a crucial role. If your parents or grandparents had varicose veins, you may be more likely to develop them.
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Being a woman:
Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause make women more susceptible.
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Pregnancy:
Increased blood volume and the pressure from the growing uterus can cause veins to enlarge.
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Trauma or injury to the skin:
Previous damage to the legs can disrupt circulation and lead to vein problems.
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Previous vein surgery:
Surgical intervention in the lower limbs can affect how blood flows, sometimes creating additional vein issues.
Understanding these triggers helps identify individuals at higher risk and encourages early intervention or lifestyle changes.
What Are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins?
Not everyone with varicose veins experiences pain, but visible signs and discomfort are common. Symptoms often worsen over time and can include:
- Bulging, twisted, and enlarged veins that are clearly visible under the skin
- Heavy or tired feeling in the legs, especially after standing or walking for long periods
- Itching around the affected veins or lower leg
- Aching or burning pain in the calves or thighs
- Swelling in the ankles and feet, particularly at the end of the day
- Skin discoloration, such as dark brown or blue patches near the ankles
- Nighttime leg cramps, which may disrupt sleep and cause fatigue
- Lumpy or rope-like appearance along the course of the vein
How Are Varicose Veins Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of varicose veins involves a mix of visual assessment, imaging, and medical history evaluation. During the initial visit, the provider will conduct a physical examination, typically while the patient is standing, to assess the size, location, and severity of the varicose veins.
To get a clearer picture of the underlying vein function, a Doppler or Duplex ultrasound may be performed. This non-invasive test uses sound waves to measure blood flow and detect malfunctioning valves or blood clots. Your provider will also review your medical history, asking about symptoms, family history of vein problems, prior injuries, and any medications or health conditions that may contribute to vein issues.
What Are the Treatment Options for Varicose Veins?
Advances in vein care have made treating varicose veins safer and more effective than ever. Minimally invasive procedures allow for quicker recovery, less pain, and high success rates. Depending on the severity and vein location, your doctor may recommend:
1. Sclerotherapy
A solution is injected directly into the affected vein, causing it to close and eventually disappear. This is ideal for smaller varicose veins and spider veins. Multiple sessions may be needed for full results.
2. Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLT, ELVeS, EVL)
In this technique, a thin fiber is inserted into the vein. A laser delivers heat, sealing the vein shut from the inside. Blood naturally reroutes to healthier veins, and the closed vein is absorbed by the body over time.
3. Ambulatory Phlebectomy
Used for surface varicose veins, this procedure removes the veins through tiny incisions made in the skin. It is performed under local anesthesia and requires minimal downtime, offering immediate aesthetic and symptomatic relief.
Most patients experience minimal scarring and are able to return to normal activities within days.
Can Varicose Veins Be Prevented?
While varicose veins may not always be preventable, especially if you have a family history, there are practical steps you can take to reduce your risk and manage symptoms:
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your leg veins
- Avoid prolonged sitting or standing; shift positions regularly
- Elevate your legs when resting to help blood flow back to the heart
- Wear compression stockings to improve circulation and relieve symptoms
- Exercise regularly, especially low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or cycling to promote healthy blood flow
Consistency in these habits can significantly reduce discomfort and delay the progression of existing varicose veins.
When to Worry About Varicose Veins?
Though many cases are benign, some symptoms signal the need for urgent evaluation. You should contact a specialist if you experience:
- Bleeding from a varicose vein, even if it seems minor
- Sudden, severe leg pain or swelling, which may indicate a blood clot
- Pain or cramping that interferes with your daily activities
- Restless legs or constant nighttime leg cramps
- Red, swollen, or warm patches on the leg that could signal inflammation or infection
If you’re experiencing symptoms or want to learn more about effective varicose vein treatments, reach out to the experts at Vein Specialty Medical Clinic. Book your consultation today.