Understanding Varicose Veins
Varicose veins usually announce themselves as bulging bluish cords running beneath the surface of the skin. The condition almost always affects the legs and feet and more than 23 percent of all adults are thought to be affected by the condition.
Varicose veins are an indication of an underlying condition or valve problem in the veins under the skin. At MyPinsOnline, our team has put together information to help you understand the condition further; here’s what you need to know:
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins occur when veins just below the skin surface get damaged, become swollen and then fill with blood. They occur mainly in the legs; this is because the veins in your legs are the farthest from your heart, and gravity makes it harder for the blood to flow upward.
In about 50% of cases, the condition runs families and is probably inherited, which could be an inherited weakness in the vein’s walls or valves in the veins that keep the blood from backing up.
Venous insufficiency
The failure in the valves is called venous insufficiency, which manifests in many ways. At its most mild, this causes ‘spider veins,’ which can be a cosmetic problem, but it can be associated with aching in the legs. Venous insufficiency is caused by valve failure, muscle pump failure and deep vein obstruction.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Symptoms associated with the condition of varicose veins include swelling, itching, throbbing, restlessness, cramp, tiredness and varicose eczema. The increased pressure of varicose veins means that some patients will experience skin damage and ulceration of the skin. Symptoms of varicose veins are generally worse at the end of the day and especially after periods of prolonged standing.
Diagnosis of the Condition
Seeking diagnosis will come from a doctor; the doctor will ask about your symptoms and about your family history with Varicose Veins. They will ask you about your lifestyle, especially the amount of time spent on your feet each day. For women, your doctor will ask about your pregnancy history and about the tightness of elasticity in the stockings or socks you wear.
Generally, no tests are needed to diagnose the condition and your doctor can diagnose varicose veins with a physical examination.
Treatment
The treatment for varicose veins for most people with mild symptoms include:
- Elevating and supporting the legs periodically throughout the day
- Wearing compression stockings
For varicose veins that are close to the skin, dermatologists or vascular surgeons may offer laser therapy, which can be effective for small veins. Larger varicose veins can be treated with ligation, stripping, laser treatment, or radiofrequency treatment. You should always call your doctor whenever you have pain or swelling connected to the condition. Seeking medical treatment is essential if you develop ulcers or cuts to the skin.
Having varicose veins means there is a problem with how your veins are working. It is essential to understand that while it is not common, there are some serious medical complications that can stem from Varicose veins.
