Varicose Veins

INTRODUCTION: - When these veins become enlarged, swollen and twisted, this abnormality in the structure of the veins is referred to as varicose veins. Varicose veins appear as protruding and enlarged lines on the skin. The color of the veins changes to blue or bluish-purple. Though varicose veins could occur anywhere in the body, but these can mostly be found in legs

CAUSES: - Varicose veins are caused due to the breakdown of the valve system in the veins. The development of varicose veins could be the result of inherited genetic characteristics, the aging process, pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, obesity or vocation-related stress on leg veins, like having to stand for long periods of time. Women who are pregnant or overweight are at an increased risk of developing varicose veins.

SYMPTOMS:-Feeling of heaviness in the legs.

Telangiectasia or spider veins.

Swelling of the ankle.

Stasis dermatitis or venous eczema.

Lipodermato sclerosis.

Restless legs syndrome.

Atrophy Blanche.

Besides these varicose vein pains, swelling, tingling, throbbing, fatigue and muscle cramps are other symptoms associated with this medical condition. Sometimes, there could also be blood clotting in these superficial veins. In case of women, the symptoms may aggravate during menstruation.

DIAGNOSIS: - Importance between effects of the light in skin surface for the diagnosis in patients committed with varicose veins. It was proved that the Translumination in Phebology can be an aid for diagnosis. Ultrasound of the veins can assist in evaluating the varicose veins. Ultrasound can help in delineating the anatomy of the veins involved. Doppler ultrasound (a device which can detect and measure blood flow) may also provide additional information such as the competency of and flow through the valves in the perforating and the deeper veins. This information is especially useful if surgery or other procedures are being considered.

TREATMENT:-Varicose veins could be treated with any of the following procedures:

Non-surgical treatments like sclerotherapy (directly injecting medicine into the affected veins), wearing of special elastic stockings and regular exercise.

Surgical treatments like vein stripping (removing the saphenous vein mass), radiofrequency ablation and endovenous laser treatment.

The symptoms can be controlled with the help of anti-inflammatory medication, like aspirin and ibuprofen.

Topical applications for thrombophlebitis and compression hosiery help to contain the condition.

PREVENTION:-Prevention of varicose veins may be accomplished by periodic leg elevation, avoidance of prolonged standing, and wearing elastic support hose. Regular exercise and control of weight can also be beneficial. These measures can prevent or slow down the progression of varicose veins.