Varicose veins are a common condition affecting a large portion of the population, particularly women and ageing people. They appear as enlarged, twisted veins beneath the skin and can cause pain or discomfort in some cases. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms and available treatment options—both traditional and modern.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins occur when the superficial veins in the legs become enlarged due to weakened or damaged vein valves. This leads to blood pooling in the veins instead of flowing efficiently back to the heart. As a result, this leads to increased intravenous pressure and the veins become stretched and visibly bulging, often bluish or purplish in colour.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Symptoms vary among individuals and may include:
- Twisted, bulging veins visible under the skin
- Heaviness or pain in the legs, worsening after long periods of standing or sitting
- Swelling of the ankles and legs
- Itching or burning sensation around affected veins
- Skin discolouration or hardening in advanced cases
- Skin ulcers near the ankle in severe cases
Causes of Varicose Veins
Several factors may contribute to the development of varicose veins, including:
- Genetics: A family history of varicose veins increases the risk
- Ageing: Veins lose elasticity with age, increasing the chance of valve failure
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop varicose veins due to hormonal changes
- Lifestyle: Prolonged standing or sitting can contribute to the condition
- Excess weight puts additional pressure on the veins, hindering blood flow
- Pregnancy: pressure on the leg veins
Treatment Options
Traditional Treatments
- Compression Stockings: Help improve blood flow and reduce swelling
- Lifestyle Modifications: Includes regular exercise, avoiding prolonged standing or sitting, and elevating the legs when resting
- Weight Loss: Reducing body weight can relieve pressure on the veins
Modern Medical Treatments
- Laser Therapy: Uses laser energy to seal off affected veins without surgery
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RF): A minimally invasive procedure using heat to close the diseased vein
- Sclerotherapy: Injection of a special solution into the affected vein, causing it to shrink and gradually disappear
- Traditional Surgery (Vein Ligation and Stripping): Surgical removal of the affected vein, used in severe cases
Varicose veins are not just a cosmetic problem; it is a condition that impacts a patient's quality of life and can lead to multiple complications if left untreated. Fortunately, there are many effective treatments available that can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
