Varicose veins are abnormally dilated and elongated veins with a twisted course. They most commonly appear on the legs. They occur due to venous valve insufficiency, whose task is to ensure the one-way flow of blood towards the heart. When the valves no longer function properly, blood flows back and accumulates in the veins. How can you protect yourself from varicose veins? What should you do when they already appear?
Causes of varicose vein formation: what you need to know
In many cases, varicose veins can be prevented, but not all factors are within our control. The main cause of varicose veins is genetic predisposition. A tendency towards venous insufficiency can be inherited, so people with a family history of this health condition should pay special attention to appropriate prevention.
It is important to remember that women are more prone to developing varicose veins. This is related to the effect of female hormones on the elasticity of the vein walls. Additionally, varicose veins often appear during pregnancy – increased pressure in the abdominal cavity and hormonal changes during this period can lead to weakening of the vein walls.
There are also factors that significantly increase the risk of varicose veins, but which we can effectively prevent. Prolonged standing or sitting in one position impedes proper blood flow, promoting venous stasis – hence, it is important to avoid prolonged sitting or standing. Being overweight also increases the load on the venous system, which can lead to their insufficiency. A lack of physical activity weakens the calf muscles, which function as a pump to assist blood return to the heart.
Is it varicose veins? Typical symptoms of varicose veins
Varicose veins develop slowly but give characteristic symptoms that should not be ignored. The first symptoms usually appear as a feeling of heaviness and fatigue in the legs, especially at the end of the day. During the summer, swelling in the ankle and foot area may occur, which, with untreated varicose veins, can become a persistent complaint throughout the year.
Venous insufficiency is often associated with pain and muscle cramps in the calves. Patients also report itching and burning of the skin over the affected veins.
As the disease progresses, visible, enlarged, and twisted veins appear under the skin, discoloration, and trophic skin changes, such as ulcers (in the most advanced stage of the disease).
Varicose vein treatment – how does therapy proceed?
In our clinic in London, we offer a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating varicose veins, tailored to the individual health condition of the patient. Available therapeutic methods include:
- Foam sclerotherapy: Involves injecting a special substance into the affected vein, causing it to close. This minimally invasive procedure is effective for smaller varicose veins.
- Laser removal of varicose veins: Uses laser energy to close the affected vein. This method has a short recovery time and minimal discomfort for the patient.
- Flebogrif method: A modern endovenous technique that allows effective treatment of dysfunctional veins without hospitalization.
Before choosing a treatment method, we conduct a thorough diagnostic process, including Doppler ultrasound, which helps assess the condition of the veins and select the optimal therapy. We also analyze the general health condition of the patient, including any medications they are taking.
Prevention and medical recommendations
To reduce the risk of varicose veins or prevent their recurrence, it is best to plan regular physical activity in your calendar. A few times a week, go for longer walks, swim, or ride a bike. All of these activities (as well as other sports) improve blood circulation and strengthen the leg muscles.
Another important issue is avoiding prolonged sitting or standing. If this is necessary in our work, regular breaks for walking and stretching should be taken. If the doctor recommends, compression stockings should be worn to support vein function and prevent blood stasis.
Maintaining a proper body weight is also important – obesity contributes to the development of many diseases, including venous insufficiency. Regarding diet, it is worth remembering that consuming fiber-rich foods and avoiding excess salt helps maintain healthy blood vessels.
Holistic approach in our clinic
At our clinic in London, we emphasize a holistic approach to the patient, which means that in addition to treating symptoms, we focus on identifying and eliminating the causes of health problems. This allows us to provide comprehensive care and long-term therapeutic results – we make treatment decisions based on the patient’s medical history and diseases, considering how they may affect each other.
Have you noticed symptoms of varicose veins? You can schedule a consultation with a phlebologist and surgeon in London.
The first signs of varicose veins are a feeling of heaviness and fatigue in the legs, especially in the evening. You may also notice swelling in the ankle area, and at night, you may experience calf muscle cramps. If, in addition, you see enlarged, twisted veins under the skin or feel itching and burning of the skin, you should consult a doctor.
Unfortunately, varicose veins do not disappear on their own, and their condition may gradually worsen. In the early stages, their development can be slowed down by prevention, such as physical activity and wearing compression stockings. However, in more advanced cases, treatment may be necessary, such as sclerotherapy, laser removal of varicose veins, or the Flebogrif method.
Untreated varicose veins can lead to serious complications such as deep vein thrombosis, venous ulcers, or chronic venous insufficiency. In some cases, thrombosis can occur, which is life-threatening. Therefore, it is important not to ignore the problem and consult a specialist.
To reduce the risk of varicose veins, it is worth avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, ensuring regular physical activity (such as walking, swimming, cycling), and maintaining a healthy body weight. Additionally, wearing compression stockings and following a healthy diet rich in fiber can support prevention.
Depending on the disease’s advancement, various methods are used to treat varicose veins, including foam sclerotherapy, laser removal of varicose veins, and the modern Flebogrif method. Before choosing a therapy, the doctor performs a Doppler ultrasound, which helps select the best treatment method tailored to the patient’s health condition.