Treatment of varicose veins
Varicose veins are a common ailment, and women are more likely to be affected than men. The veins expand and become visible as bluish serpentine lines. They most commonly appear on the legs. Because varicose veins can no longer completely transport the blood back to the heart, water accumulates in the tissue. Your legs become heavy and painful. Varicose veins are not just aesthetically bothersome. They can even lead to poorly healing wounds and inflammation, and should be treated by a doctor.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are caused by weak connective tissue. A genetic predisposition is most commonly the cause. Obesity, old age and an unhealthy lifestyle can make varicose veins even worse. Female hormones and multiple pregnancies also have a negative influence. Varicose veins will not go away by themselves. When the walls of the veins expand, the important venous valves inside also break. The severity of the varicose veins can be determined using ultrasound or by visualising the veins using a contrast medium.
How are varicose veins removed?
The choice of surgical procedure depends on how pronounced the varicose veins are. Spider veins can be treated by means of a laser or with the help of medication that is injected into the veins. This takes several sessions, and there is usually no need for anaesthetic. Larger varicose veins can also be lasered or stripped. When stripping the veins, the surgeon extracts the veins by drawing them out through small incisions made in the skin. Surgery is performed under local, partial or general anaesthetic.
What must be kept in mind after varicose vein surgery?
After surgery, the wounds are dressed and a bandage is applied. After one day, the patient can remove the bandage and put on support stockings. The support stockings must be worn for at least two weeks until everything has healed. For certain pre-existing conditions, a drug may be administered to prevent thrombosis. Exercise is important to prevent the varicose veins from returning. A balanced diet in the interest of avoiding obesity and elevating the legs also help.