Varicose disease is a common condition where veins in the legs become enlarged, swollen, and twisted. This can cause discomfort, pain, and aching in the legs, as well as a range of other symptoms. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at varicose disease, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Causes of Varicose Disease:
Varicose disease occurs when the valves in the veins of the legs become weak or damaged. These valves are responsible for preventing blood from flowing back down the legs and pooling in the veins. When the valves don’t function properly, blood can flow backwards and collect in the veins, causing them to become swollen and enlarged.
Some of the most common causes of varicose disease include:
Age: As we age, the valves in our veins can weaken, making it more difficult for blood to flow back up the legs.
Gender: Women are more likely to develop varicose disease than men, due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, and menstruation.
Genetics: Varicose disease tends to run in families, so if your parents or grandparents had it, you may be more likely to develop it as well.
Lifestyle: Sitting or standing for long periods, being overweight or obese, and lack of exercise can all contribute to varicose disease.
Symptoms of Varicose Disease:
The most common symptoms of varicose disease include:
Swollen, twisted, and bulging veins that are visible just under the surface of the skin.
Aching, cramping, or throbbing pain in the legs.
Heavy or tired feeling in the legs.
Itching or burning in the affected area.
Restless leg syndrome.
Skin changes, including discoloration, dryness, or inflammation.
Ulcers or open sores in severe cases.
Treatment of Varicose Disease:
The treatment of varicose disease depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases can often be treated with lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, exercising, and wearing compression stockings.
For more severe cases, there are a range of medical treatments available. Some of the most common treatment options include:
Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT): This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser energy to close off the affected vein.
Sclerotherapy: This involves injecting a special solution into the affected vein, which causes it to collapse and eventually disappear.
Ambulatory phlebectomy: This involves removing the affected vein through small incisions in the skin.
Vein stripping: This is a surgical procedure that involves removing the affected vein through small incisions in the skin.
In conclusion, varicose disease is a common condition that can cause discomfort, pain, and a range of other symptoms. While it can be a nuisance, there are a range of effective treatments available to manage the symptoms and improve the condition. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
