What are they?
Varicose veins are dilated tortuous veins often visible in the thigh and calf.
How did I get them?
There is no single reason why a person develops varicose veins. Prolonged standing, pregnancy and family tendency all contribute.
The veins contain valves which should prevent back-flow or reflux down the vein. It is failure of these valves that allows the visible varicose veins to form.
On the right the vein has become varicose due to valve failure
How are they diagnosed?
A detailed clinical history and examination is required to determine any underlying problem related to the varicose veins.
Ultrasound imaging will confirm the diagnosis and accurately identify the source of the varicose veins. This is extremely useful in planning the optimal treatment.
Ultrasound image of the junction of the saphenous vein with the deep vein
Colour-flow duplex allows blood flow to be identified. Areas of abnormal flow -reflux can be clearly seen
How can they be treated?
The treatment options range from doing nothing or wearing stockings to surgical removal or stripping.
The best treatment option will depend on the severity of the symptoms the veins are causing general health and patient choice.
Conservative options
Graduated compression stockings act to overcome the effects of the failed venous valves and support the leg. wearing them daily will reduce the common symptoms of varicose veins, such as leg heaviness, aching and swelling. They are generally well tolerated but do not provide a cure for the condition.
Interventions
More information on the range of treatments to get rid of varicose veins can be found by following the links below:
Sclerotherapy
liquid injections
microsclerotherapy
foam sclerotherapy
Endovenous surgery
Laser
Radiofrequency ablation
Conventional surgery
What if they are left?
It is likely that the veins will progress over time. However if they are not causing symptoms they can safely be left alone,
as this picture of world-class American professional cyclist George Hincapie shows!
