Varicose veins are abnormally large, spiralled veins that are often seen just under the skin & surface, typically in the legs. They are usually regarded as a mere cosmetic issue; however, they may illustrate the presence of some other vein-related problems and thus cause a variety of symptoms or even complications. Hence, early recognition is the cornerstone of effective management.
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What Are Varicose Veins and How Do They Begin?
Varicose veins unfold as a result of the failure of minuscule valves present inside the veins. This leads to blood accumulation, causing the veins to become unbent and twisted. The legs suffer the most in this case because of the pressure exerted by standing and walking. The early stage of the condition may be accompanied by slight symptoms that may include:
- The first nodes that are close to the skin surface and look like a net of capillary vessels are being formed
- A sensation of heaviness, fatigue, or even a minor pain in the legs, in particular following a long period of sitting or standing
- Legs that are numb, itchy, or restless and the discomfort that is worst at night
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Why it is Important to Provide Treatment in the Early Stage
Identifying varicose veins as early as the stage of the disease can be a move to stop the situation from going further and as a result, not only to avoid the typical symptoms of the disease but also to avoid those that show up as a consequence of ulcers, swelling, or chronic venous insufficiency. The minor first symptoms, if present and not treated, may increase in size.
What the Doctors Will Do: The Right Choice of Specialists
You will be physically examined by a vein specialist as a vascular surgeon, interventional radiologist, or a vein clinic doctor. Whatever your condition is a physical examination and, if necessary, a duplex ultrasound to assess the blood flow and valve function are the most common ways used for a diagnosis.
Changes in lifestyle you can apply are:–
• Thorough and frequent walks:Â
One of the best forms of exercise and blood flow-boosting activities that you can take part in, along with cycling and swimming.
• Raise your legs:Â
The pressure and poor flow that cause the problem can be eased by elevating your legs above the heart for 10–15 minutes a few times a day.
• Put on compression stockings:Â
They take the pressure off the muscles and make the veins work better.
• Stay in your ideal weight:Â
Having less pressure will make your veins healthy again
Medical & Minimally Invasive Treatments
If lifestyle changes are not enough to help or veins get worse, doctors may suggest the following:
• Sclerotherapy:Â
Incision of a solution in the vein, which voids the vessel of blood, and eventually, the vein disappears and the skin regains its normal color.
• Endovenous laser ablation (EVLT):Â
A laser fiber is fitted into a vein and the heat generated from the laser will close the vein that is causing the trouble.
• Radiofrequency abaltion:Â
The endovenous laser technique is generally accompanied by radiofrequency ablation where a catheter is used to heat the vein and close it off locally.
• Ambulatory phlebectomy or vein removal:Â
A non-functioning vein is removed through numerous small incisions, which are usually minor and performed on an outpatient basis.
The choice of treatment will depend additionally on factors such as the vein & size, the symptoms, and the patient’s opinion. The success rate of minimally invasive methods is very high, almost equal to that of traditional surgery; however, the period of recovery is shorter and the side effects are fewer.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience the following, a doctor visit is a must:
- Pain, heaviness, cramping, or swelling in the legs.
- Skin changes like discoloration, itching, or dryness.
- Constant sores or ulcers in the varicose veins area that do not heal.
Why Dr. Arvind Nanda?
A reliable specialist can make a significant difference in the right direction if you are a varicose vein sufferer. Dr. Arvind Nanda is a doctor who has a history of successfully conducting patients showing varicose veins symptoms through effective treatment options. Not only will his experience make you aware of the disease but he will also come up with a treatment plan that suits you.
Final Thoughts
Varicose veins might seem like nothing, but they are a sign of how your veins are doing—and if you keep ignoring them, you will have to suffer from the pain or some other consequences. Thankfully, it is still very doable: proper lifestyle changes and treatment at an early stage can keep the problem in control.