Understanding Varicose Veins: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Have you ever noticed bulging, twisted veins on your legs? These are varicose veins, a common condition affecting almost 30% of the Indian population. Women are 2 to 3 times more likely to develop them than men. This blog aims to provide comprehensive information about varicose veins, their causes, symptoms, and various treatment options, helping readers make informed decisions about their health.

What are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins visible just under the skin's surface, commonly found in the legs. This is when the valves in the veins that help blood flow towards the heart stop functioning appropriately, causing blood to pool in the veins, making them enlarged and twisted.

Who is at Risk of Developing Varicose Veins?

Several factors can contribute to the development of varicose veins:

• Genetic Factors: Family history plays a major role. If your parents or grandparents have a history of varicose veins, the chances of your developing them are high.
• Lifestyle Factors: Long periods of standing or sitting can increase pressure in the veins, leading to varicose veins. Lack of exercise and obesity also put extra pressure on the veins.
• Hormonal Factors: Hormonal fluctuations, like those experienced during pregnancy, menopause, or while taking birth control pills, can weaken vein walls and increase the likelihood of developing varicose veins.
• Age and Gender: As we age, the valves in our veins may weaken and not function as efficiently, leading to varicose veins. Women are more susceptible due to hormonal factors.
• Less Common Risk Factors: Other risk factors include hormonal changes due to thyroid disorders and injuries to the veins.

How Do you Know if You are Suffering from Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins can be easily recognised by their appearance:

• Visible Symptoms: Varicose veins are often visible as dark blue or purple veins that appear to be twisted and bulging.
• Physical Symptoms: Many people with varicose veins experience aching, throbbing, swelling, and itching in the affected area.
• Complications: Severe complications can include skin darkening, ulcers, itching, and blood clots.

Traditional vs. Modern Treatment Options

Traditional methods included vein stripping and ligation, which involved removing or tying off affected veins. These procedures often required hospital stays and longer recovery periods. Modern treatments offer advanced and less invasive approaches, typically involving minimal downtime and performed on an outpatient basis.

The Modern Approach to Varicose Vein Treatment

Gone are the days of invasive surgeries for varicose veins. Today, minimally invasive procedures offer safe and effective solutions. Here are two leading procedures:

Ablation Therapy: Using Heat to Close the Veins

Ablation therapy is a minimally invasive technique that uses heat to close off varicose veins, leading to their collapse and eventual absorption by the body.

Types of Ablation:

• Radiofrequency Ablation
• Laser Ablation

Procedure: A narrow catheter is inserted into the vein during the procedure. The catheter then delivers heat through radiofrequency or laser energy, causing the vein walls to collapse and seal shut. The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia.

VenaSeal Treatment: A Non-Thermal Approach

The Venaseal procedure involves using a medical glue to close off varicose veins. This glue seals the vein, and blood is rerouted through healthier veins.

Procedure: A catheter is inserted into the affected vein, delivering a small amount of adhesive to seal the vein. Venaseal does not require heat, unlike ablation therapy, making it a unique option.

Effectiveness: Venaseal has shown high success rates and positive outcomes. Patients report a major improvement in symptoms and the appearance of their legs.

Benefits of Ablation and VenaSeal Treatments

Both ablation therapy and the Venaseal procedure offer significant advantages over traditional methods for treating varicose veins:

• Minimally Invasive: Fewer incisions and less tissue damage.
• Quick Recovery: Faster recovery times and minimal downtime.
• Outpatient Procedure: No hospital stay is required.
• Effectiveness: High success rates and long-term results.
• Safety: Lower risk of complications.
• Less Discomfort: Reduced pain and discomfort compared to traditional surgical methods.

When considering the specific advantages of each approach, ablation therapy is often preferred for treating larger varicose veins. The Venaseal procedure offers a unique benefit as it is the least time-consuming and painful of all the procedures.

Post-Treatment Care for Varicose Veins

Adhering to your doctor's post-treatment recommendations will help in a smooth recovery and maximize the long-term success of the treatment.

• Immediate Aftercare: Patients should wear compression stockings, avoid strenuous activities, and elevate the treated leg when possible.
• Long-term Care: Maintaining healthy veins involves regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding longer periods of standing or sitting.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: A balanced diet rich in fibre, routine physical activity, and avoiding tight clothing can help support vein health and prevent recurrence.

Consult with Dr. Akhil Monga for the Best Varicose Vein Treatment in and around Mohali

If you doubt you have varicose veins, it is essential to seek professional advice. Schedule a consultation with Dr Akhil Monga, who specializes in diagnosing and treating varicose veins with the latest techniques, including ablation therapy and Venaseal. Contact him today to discuss the most suitable treatment option for you. Don't let varicose veins affect your life any longer€”take the first step towards healthier veins today.