Description

Varicose veins or varicosities are bulging enlarged, twisted veins, often appearing blue or purple, that can be seen beneath the skin. They typically occur in the legs, feet, and ankles, causing discomfort like pain or itching. While they can be visible on the surface, deeper veins in the legs can also become varicosed. Here's a more detailed explanation: What they are: Varicose veins are blood vessels that have become abnormally dilated and elongated. Where they occur: They are most common in the legs, due to increased blood pressure in the lower body veins from standing and walking. Spider veins are like varicose veins, but they're smaller. Spider veins are found closer to the skin's surface and might look like a spider's web. Risk factors The two main risk factors for varicose veins are: A) Family history. If other family members have varicose veins, there's a greater chance you will too. B) Obesity. Being overweight puts added pressure on veins. Causes of varicose veins formation: Several factors can contribute to varicose veins, including: a) Weak or damaged vein walls and valves. Aging causes wear and tear on the valves in the veins that help control blood flow. Over time, that wear causes the valves to allow some blood to flow back into the veins, where it collects. b) Sex. Women are more likely to get the condition. Hormones tend to relax vein walls. So changes in hormones before a menstrual period or during pregnancy or menopause might be a factor. Hormone treatments, such as birth control pills, might increase the risk of varicose veins. c) Pregnancy. During pregnancy, the blood volume in the body increases. This change supports the growing baby but also can make the veins in the legs bigger. Increased blood pressure inside veins leads into varicosities. d) Long periods of sitting or standing, and an inactive lifestyle. Movement helps blood flow and prevents formation of varicose veins. Symptoms of Varicose Veins: For many people, varicose veins are simply a cosmetic concern. So are spider veins, a common, mild form of varicose veins. The common symptoms are, 1) Bulging, bluish veins. 2) Pain, itching, burning, or aching in the legs. Worse pain after sitting or standing for a long time. 3) Swelling in the legs or ankles. 4) A feeling of heaviness in the legs. Treatment options for varicose veins: Various options exist to prevent the varicosities or procedure may be done to close or remove these faulty veins. , including: A) Home remedies: Exercise, compression stockings, raising the legs, and avoiding long periods of sitting or standing. B) Sclerotherapy: Injecting a chemical into the vein to close it. C) Endo-venous laser ablation Treatment (EVLT): Laser treatment for varicose veins, also known as Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) or Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins by using laser energy to heat and seal the vein, causing it to collapse and eventually fade away. This procedure can be performed under local or general anaesthesia. How does it work: A thin laser fiber is inserted into the affected varicose vein through a needle puncture incision. The laser energy heats the vein wall, causing it to collapse and seal off, and the blood flow is redirected to healthier veins. Recovery: Patients can usually return to their normal activities within a few days, although strenuous activities may be restricted for a couple of weeks. Benefits: EVLT is a minimally invasive procedure with a high success rate, leading to a reduction in pain, swelling, and varicose vein symptoms. It also offers advantages over traditional vein stripping, such as fewer visible scars and wounds. Success Rates: EVLA has been reported to have a success rate between 92% 95% at 6 months. Aftercare: Compression stockings may be recommended to promote blood circulation and reduce swelling. Cost: The cost of laser ablation can vary, but it is often considered an effective and relatively affordable option for treating varicose veins. D) Radiofrequency ablation: Similar to laser ablation, but using radio waves to close the vein. E) Micro-Phlebectomy: Surgical removal of small veins. Complications of Varicose Veins: While not usually life-threatening, untreated varicose veins can lead to skin changes, non-healing venous ulcers, or bleeding. Sometimes they lead to more-serious health problems when there are formation of blood clots in these varicosities. Long time varicose veins can cause the legs to swell. Preventive measures for Varicose Veins: Getting better blood flow and muscle tone might lower the risk of having varicose veins. The same ways you treat the discomfort from varicose veins can help prevent them. Try the following: # Don't wear high heels or tight stockings, other than compression stockings. # Avoid sitting or standing for prolong duration . # Eat a high-fiber and low-salt diet. # Exercise / Walk regularly for 30-45 mins. # Raise your legs when sitting or lying down. # Keep a healthy weight. When to see a doctor: If you worry about how your veins look and feel and self-care measures haven't helped, see your healthcare professional. This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult Dr. Brijendra Singh at Brij Laser And Laparoscopy Centre. Why Brij Laser and Laparoscopic Centre for Varicose veins surgery? • 500+ Successful varicose veins surgeries. • Highest Success rate with instant result. • Post surgery No complication. • Hassle-free Insurance Approval • Almost all Insurances covered • No Hidden Charges • Paperwork by Brij Laser and Laparoscopy team on your behalf • Cashless Insurance Facility • Private Room for Patients. • Easy follow ups @ patient's convenience. • Maintains very good Doctor and Patient relationship.