Varicose Veins: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Varicose Veins: Symptoms, Causes & Advanced Treatment Options

Varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic concern. For many people, they represent discomfort, pain, and even more serious health issues if left untreated. In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into varicose veins – what causes them, how to identify symptoms early, and the modern treatments available to help you get relief.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen, and twisted veins that usually appear dark blue or purple. They occur when the valves in the veins become weak or damaged, causing blood to flow backward and pool in the vein. This makes the veins appear bulged and twisted, most commonly in the legs and feet due to pressure from standing and walking.

Common Symptoms of Varicose Veins

• Heavy or aching legs
• Burning, throbbing, or cramping in the legs
• Swelling in the lower legs or ankles
• Itching around the veins
• Skin discoloration around the affected vein
• Worsening pain after sitting or standing for long periods
• Restless legs at night

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Several factors contribute to varicose veins:

• Weak or damaged vein valves
• Age-related wear and tear
• Family history or genetics
• Pregnancy-related hormonal changes
• Obesity and excess body weight
• Prolonged standing or sitting
• Hormonal influences (birth control, menopaus

Who Is at Risk?

You may be more likely to develop varicose veins if:

• You are over the age of 40
• You are female
• You have a family history of varicose veins
• You are overweight or obese
• You are pregnant or have had multiple pregnancies
• You spend long hours standing or sitting
• You lead a sedentary lifestyle

Possible Complications

• Chronic venous insufficiency
• Skin ulcers or open sores
• Blood clots (DVT or superficial thrombophlebitis)
• Bleeding from surface veins
• Skin discoloration or hardening (lipodermatosclerosis)

How Are Varicose Veins Diagnosed?

A vascular specialist will first perform a physical examination. To confirm the diagnosis and assess blood flow, a Doppler ultrasound is usually done. This test shows how blood is flowing through your veins and helps locate any blockages or faulty valves.

Modern & Minimally Invasive Treatment Options

The good news is varicose veins can be treated easily with today’s advanced techniques.

Lifestyle Changes:

• Exercise regularly
• Elevate your legs
• Avoid prolonged standing or sitting
• Wear compression stockings

Minimally Invasive Procedures:

• Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
• Sclerotherapy
• VenaSeal™ Glue Treatment
• Foam Sclerotherapy
• Phlebectomy (small vein removal through micro incisions)

These treatments are safe, outpatient-based, and have minimal recovery time.

Recovery and Aftercare

Most patients return to normal activities within 1–2 days.

• Avoid intense workouts for a few days
• Use compression stockings (if advised)
• Elevate legs to reduce swelling
• Follow up with your doctor for reviews

Prevention Tips

• Walk daily
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat a high-fiber, low-salt diet
• Avoid tight clothes around legs and waist
• Wear low-heeled shoes

When Should You See a Doctor?

Visit a vein specialist if:

• You have ongoing pain, heaviness, or swelling
• Your veins are bulging, red, or discolored
• Skin near your veins becomes itchy or hard
• You experience bleeding or ulcers
• You feel self-conscious about the appearance

Conclusion

Varicose veins are a common but manageable condition. Thanks to medical advancements, treatment is now safer, faster, and more effective than ever. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of varicose veins, don’t wait — consult a vascular expert and explore the best treatment options suited for you.

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