What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen, and distorted, often blue or dark purple in color. They occur when defective valves in the veins allow blood to flow or pool in the wrong direction. Many people consider it as a cosmetic concern, but for others, it is a painful and uncomfortable condition affecting their daily lives.
Symptoms of Varicose veins
Varicose veins symptoms can range from mild to severe, typically appearing as enlarged, twisted, or bulging veins on the legs. While some may not experience pain, others may have aching, swelling, or a heavy feeling. Early recognition can help prevent complications.
- Swelling: Often in the legs or ankles.
- Aching: Pain or discomfort in the legs.
- Heaviness: A feeling of fullness or fatigue in the legs.
- Itching: Around the veins.
- Darkening: Skin discoloration near veins.
- Throbbing: Sensation of throbbing in affected area.
- Cramping: Leg cramps, especially at night.
- Visible veins: Enlarged, twisted veins beneath the skin.
- Burning: Sensation around the veins.
Causes of Varicose veins
Varicose veins occur due to weakened or damaged vein walls and valves, leading to poor blood flow. Common varicose veins causes include:
- Genetics
- Age
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Prolonged Standing
- Hormonal Changes
- Injury
- Sedentary Lifestyle
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionDiagnosing Varicose Veins
Physical Exam:
- Doctor visually examines conditions in standing and sitting positions.
- Explanation of symptoms in detail may be required.
Test for Varicose Veins:
Venous Doppler Ultrasound:
- Non-invasive test using a small hand-held device.
- Conducted on an out-patient basis.
- Uses sound waves to check blood flow across vein valves.
Risk Factors for Varicose Veins
Several factors increase the likelihood of developing varicose veins by affecting blood flow or vein health.
- Age
- Gender
- Family History
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Prolonged Standing
- Inactivity
- Hormonal Changes
Complications of Varicose Veins
If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to several complications. A varicose veins specialist can help manage and prevent these issues, which include:
- Ulcers
- Blood clots
- Bleeding
- Skin discoloration
- Inflammation or swelling
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Tips to Reduce Varicose Veins Formation
- Exercise Regularly
- Maintain a Healthy Weight
- Eat a Low-Salt, High-Fiber Diet
- Avoid High Heels and Tight Clothing
- Elevate Your Legs
- Regularly Change Sitting or Standing Positions
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Treatment for Varicose Veins
At Medicover Hospitals, we offer comprehensive varicose veins treatment with the Best Varicose Veins specialists in India, serving at various locations across the country listed below:
Treatment for varicose veins aims to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. A varicose veins specialist can guide you through effective options, including:
- Compression stockings: Help reduce swelling and discomfort by improving circulation.
- Sclerotherapy: Injection of a solution to collapse and fade the affected veins.
- Laser therapy: Focused light to seal veins, effective for smaller varicose veins.
- Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT): Laser used to collapse larger veins through a catheter.
- Vein stripping surgery: Surgical removal of large, troublesome veins.
- Ambulatory phlebectomy: Removal of veins through small incisions, for veins near the skin’s surface.
- Lifestyle changes: Exercise, weight management, and leg elevation to ease symptoms.
Consulting a varicose veins specialist helps determine the best treatment for your condition.
Dos and Don’ts
With every medical condition, there are medical, dietary, and lifestyle guidelines to help you manage it with ease.
Varicose veins require adherence to certain lifestyle changes and treatment protocols to manage symptoms and achieve the best outcomes.
|
Do’s |
Don’ts |
|---|---|
|
Exercise regularly |
Do heavy exercises |
|
Eat a healthy diet |
Eat junk foods |
|
Elevate legs |
Stand or sit in one position for a long time |
|
Use Compression stockings |
Follow fashion statement |
|
Massage your feet |
Maintain heavy weight |
Get to know more specific instructions from your consulting doctor based on your unique condition.
Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!
040-68334455Frequently Asked Questions
Are varicose veins a sign of poor health?
The resulting twisted blue bulges, referred to as varicose veins, can make your legs feel thick, exhausted, or achy and make you feel self-conscious about their unsightly appearance, but they are not a big threat to your health.
How can I prevent varicose veins during pregnancy?
Regular workout. For your stage of pregnancy, remain within the recommended weight range. Whenever possible, elevate your feet and legs to your heart level or above. When seated, do not cross your legs or ankles. For long periods of time, don't sit or stand.
Is walking good for varicose veins?
Small changes in lifestyle can work well for varicose veins, and walking is a perfect way to make those veins less visible and less painful. Varicose veins are caused by the failure of a vein to pump blood upwards properly through your body.
Do varicose veins go away after pregnancy?
Most of the time, about 3 to 4 months after the birth of a boy, varicose veins go down. During birth, wearing compression tights and such will help speed up the process while still covering them up.
Is surgery necessary for varicose veins?
Surgery is only needed in severe cases or when other treatments fail. Procedures like vein stripping or laser therapy can be done to remove or close off affected veins.
Can varicose veins return after treatment?
Yes, varicose veins can return, especially if underlying causes like obesity or poor circulation are not addressed. However, treatment can significantly reduce symptoms.
