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Image courtesy of Steven Zimmet, M.D. |
Raised, swollen, red veins that
begin in the legs and move throughout the body are known as varicose veins.
Varicose veins are large swollen, enlarged blood vessels on the surface of your
legs. They are different from spider
veins in that it comes in various colors such as purple and blue and it is
larger in size. Spider veins are generally more localized to the legs, chest,
and face. There are several factors that can lead to varicose veins: these
include genetic tendency, occupations that require one to stand for long
periods of time, those who are overweight, and individuals with a history of
blood clots. In addition, there are risk factors that affect only women. These
include hormone changes due to puberty, pregnancy and menopause. Furthermore,
both birth control and post-menopausal hormone replacement all lead to
increased incidents of varicose veins. Because of these additional risk factors,
women have much higher chances of developing varicose veins than men. Menopause
especially can lead to lots of varicose veins because both age and hormonal
levels are changing.
Besides being a cosmetic concern
varicose veins can cause pain, cramping and aching in the veins. Others reported
burning, tiredness, tingling, heaviness and restlessness in the legs. Unfortunately
for women the pain normally increases during hormonal changes. Varicose veins
can also lead to swelling, ulcers (large open sores), and darkening of the skin
most often found around the ankles. Sometimes varicose veins can lead to blood
clots, which can be especially painful and is known as a condition called
thrombophlebitis.
Fortunately, there are several
treatment options available for veins. One
of the easiest ways to help relieve varicose veins is to spend less time
standing in one spot, instead increase the amount of time you spend walking and
elevating feet while sitting. Since
symptoms vary from person to person, treatment may not be necessary unless you
are uncomfortable with the sight of your veins. Stockings are another way of
treating varicose veins. Wearing stockings helps to subdue pain and any
discomfort. Special supportive stockings are found at surgical supply stores
and are available in many different styles, including below-the-knee, above-the
knee and pantyhose. Other treatments include sclerotherapy, a saline solution
is injected into the vein and causes the swollen vain to disappear over a three
to six week period. This type of treatment is the most simple and patients are
able to return home the same day. Another therapy is endovenous laser treatment;
a laser is inserted into the vein and eventually causes it to collapse.
Radiofrequency is also used to
treat veins, and like laser treatment it leads to the collapse of the veins.
Other surgical techniques include tying veins off, removing a segment of the
vein, and removing surface veins. These surgeries are generally noninvasive and
patients can return home the same day. If you are uncomfortable with your
varicose veins then speak to a doctor to determine which type of treatment is
best for you.
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