Common Symptoms and Treatment for Varicose Veins

 

The venous circulation, also known as return circulation, is made up of a vast network of veins whose function is to bring blood from tissues to the heart.

One of the most important things that identify the veins is that there are valves that control the passage of the blood to prevent it from flowing backward and only towards the heart.

As we age and as our muscles age, the effectiveness of these valves decreases and the blood becomes stuck.

When this happens, chronic venous insufficiency occurs (CVI), leading to the common varicose veins.

What Are Varicose Veins?

When the damaged valves are in the superficial veins (those you can see through the skin), varicose veins occur.

Varicose veins are nothing more than swollen and sturdy veins that are visible through the skin. They usually protrude under the skin of the legs, thighs, and ankles, with a bluish or purplish appearance.

Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Symptoms related to varicose veins occur because there is blood retention in the legs.

There is usually weakness or pain and a feeling of heaviness. Many people have varicose veins but experience no symptoms other than vein spots.

Symptoms may not be related to the varicose veins' severity. Some have huge varicose veins and have no symptoms and vice versa.

The heaviness feeling in the legs increases throughout the day and is usually the most common symptom.

This symptom often worsens in summer or hot weather; high temperatures promote the dilation of blood vessels, promoting even more fluid retention.

Other symptoms may be a burning sensation or cramps in the legs, especially after long periods of standing.

Other severe symptoms appear when veins insufficiency advance. Visible changes begin to appear on the skin in dark brown spots (this skin condition is called ocher dermatitis). Gradually, the skin becomes inflamed, stiff and inelastic. 

Ulcers can appear in very severe cases where there is already a failure of circulation and oxygen does not reach the skin.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

There is no single factor that causes varicose veins. More precisely, some factors can lead to this condition, and most of the time, several of them act together simultaneously.

First, genetic or hereditary factors play a significant role. Often people with varicose veins have relatives with the same problem, even more than those who do not have varicose veins.

Hormones can also determine the appearance of varicose veins.

Associated hormonal factors, especially changes in estrogen levels, may also contribute to the onset of this disease. 

These alterations in hormone levels explain why the first symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency appear in women with the first menstrual periods and worsen during menopause.

Some women feel that their leg veins dilate or grow before or after their period and pregnancy. Hormonal changes are most likely the cause.

Another factor that has a strong influence is standing for long periods. The blood flow stops when we stand without moving, reducing the blood supply to the lower extremities promoting fluid retention.

Who Can Be Affected By Varicose Veins?

A frequent question asked in doctor's offices is who is more likely to suffer from varicose veins?

Yes, some are most at risk, and they are women. It is estimated that approximately 20%-25% of women and 10%-15% of men suffer from chronic venous insufficiency. It is also more prevalent with ageing, gradually increasing the risk. 

Those jobs in which people spend long times standing, such as waiters, teachers, drafters, hairdressers or salespeople, are at a higher risk of suffering from varicose veins.

The risk also increases in pregnant women, in obesity, if you are getting older, use oral contraceptives, or suffer from blood clots in the legs.

How Are Varicose Veins Treated?

Treatment depends on the symptoms and covers a broad of possibilities ranging from pharmacological therapies to surgical procedures.

Varicose veins in their early stages receive conventional treatments such as home massage and limb elevation.

There are handy tips to improve symptoms at home or work:

-        Take advantage of any circumstance to move your legs. If your job requires long periods of standing or sitting, you should take short breaks by walking or moving your feet. 

-        Avoid sources of heat: hot waxing, hot baths, saunas, as well as prolonged saunas, as well as prolonged exposure to the sun.

-        Choose appropriate sports: walking is the most beneficial sport for blood flow; gymnastics, cycling, dancing or swimming are also beneficial; do not play tennis or basketball if you have venous problems. 

-        Take a daily cold shower on your legs. Walking along the shore combines cold legs and physical exercise. 

-        Avoid constipation and overweight.

-        Wear comfortable clothing. Avoid tight-fitting garments around the waist.

-        Wear proper footwear. Flat shoes and those with high heels hinder venous return. Ideally, a heel of 3-4 cm 

-        Elevate your feet off the bed by placing a small book underneath.

-        Massage from the foot to the thigh whenever possible.

-        Control your veins. Visit the vascular physician periodically.

When Should I Wear Compression Stockings?

Stockings are beneficial in venous problems because they prevent varicose veins. 

On the other hand, when varicose veins are already there, compression stockings are beneficial, especially when aggressive treatments are not needed yet. They will slow their progression, improve symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

Best treatment options for varicose veins

Phlebotonic drugs improve the vein's function and are the ideal treatment.

Some natural substances obtained from Ruscus aculeatus and horse chestnut, and others synthetic, such as diosmin, definitely reduce symptoms. They also improve swelling, the heaviness sensation and fluid retention.

Sclerotherapy: It consists of injecting an irritating substance inside the affected vein. The irritation will eventually lead to the disappearance of the vein by fibrosis. The diseased vein disappears and stops hurting.

If you are experiencing annoying symptoms and guess they are related to varicose veins, do not hesitate to contact a specialist to choose the best treatment.