Veins carry deoxygenated blood from the tissues back to the heart. The flow in the veins is maintained by a series of valves which allow flow only towards the heart- one way traffic. When the valve gets damaged, blood stagnates in the vein leading to varicose veins. If untreated blood starts to leak from this dilated vein which causes the pigmentation and itching.
In varicose veins the veins are dilated, become long and coiled like a snake. It is common in those who stand for long hours like policemen, Waiters, salesmen and teachers. . It is more common in women and usually starts during pregnancy In many the varicosities regress after delivery but with recurrent pregnancies the vein remains permanently dilated.
SYMPTOMS
- Heaviness in the legs more on standing.
- Swelling in the leg which reduces on elevating the leg
- Crampy pain more at night
- Pigmentation around the ankle
- Itching, ulceration and eczema
- Spontaneous bleeding from the veins
- Rarely clotting or Deep vein thrombosis
- Many women have tiny veins in the skin- Spider veins which are due to hormone disturbances and do not require any treatment except for cosmetic purposes.
CLINICAL EXAMINATION
Color Doppler study helps to determine which system of veins is affected. It helps to decide on the mode of treatment.
TREATMENT
Stagnation of blood can be prevented by Medical management
- Graded compression stockings or Elastocrepe bandage. This should be worn from mid foot upto knee or mid thigh and should be worn during the day.
- Intermittent elevation of the leg helps to empty the vein. One must lie down and elevate the leg to facilitate flow in the veins by gravity. .
- Wound care if there is ulcer or eczema Majority of the patients will get good relief with these measures.. But all these can only prevent complication but cannot correct the varicose veins which require some form of intervention
INJECTION SCLEROTHERAPY
Minor varicose veins and those who recur after surgery can be managed by injecting irritant solution into the vein to block them. Spider veins can also be removed by sclerotherapy
HOW TO PREVENT?
- To wear stockings during pregnancy and after delivery
- Weight reduction
- Intermittent elevation of the leg
- Adequate exercises like pedalling movement of the ankle – It works the calf muscle and helps to empty the veins.
- For more information visit our website www.chennaiveinclinic.com
