What are Varicose Veins from a Vascular Doctor?
Varicose Veins are one of the most common vascular diseases. In the early stages, Varicose Veins can be present without any symptoms, with visible and dilated varicose veins over the thighs and calves. Patients also often experience discomfort, aches, and heaviness in the legs. Reports of night cramps and leg swelling are also frequently noted. Despite these difficulties, patients often downplay their symptoms and experiences.
It is critical that patients are empowered with the knowledge to spot and subsequently report the symptoms of varicose veins to specialists. Specialists like vascular surgeons are well-equipped to identify the early signs of varicose veins and administer the appropriate treatment. This will drastically and promptly improve the patient’s quality of life.
Vascular Doctor Insights: Causes of Varicose Veins
When it comes to the causes of varicose veins, it is important to explain to patients that they often develop due to weakened or damaged valves within the veins. These valves play a vital role in facilitating the one-way flow of blood back to the heart. When the valves fail, blood can pool and accumulate in the veins, leading to their enlargement and the characteristic appearance of varicose veins. While there are a range of contributing factors, including genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, pregnancy, obesity, prolonged periods of standing or sitting, and a sedentary lifestyle, the exact cause may vary among individuals.
Patients often present with a variety of symptoms related to varicose veins. These may include the visible appearance of bulging and twisted veins under the skin. Many patients experience discomfort or heaviness in the legs, particularly after extended periods of standing or sitting. Swelling, especially in the lower legs and ankles, may also be present. Other common symptoms can include itching and burning sensations, as well as discomfort and frequent muscle cramps that worsen with prolonged activity but improve with leg elevation or rest.
The Role of a Vascular Doctor in Diagnosing and Managing Varicose Veins
To diagnose varicose veins accurately, a vascular doctor will conduct a comprehensive evaluation during the patient’s visit. This involves a thorough examination, where a vascular doctor can carefully examine the affected areas and assess the extent and severity of the condition. Additionally, your vascular doctor should obtain your detailed medical history to identify any predisposing factors or underlying medical conditions. To further support the diagnosis test, such as a duplex ultrasound, which allows a detailed assessment of blood flow in the veins and the identification of causes and any underlying issues.
Treatment options for varicose veins are multifaceted and depend on the specific needs of each patient. Vascular doctors often prioritise the alleviation of symptoms, prevention of complications, and improvement of the cosmetic appearance of the affected veins. Lifestyle modifications are often the first step in management, and vascular doctors will provide guidance on exercise routines, weight management, avoiding prolonged periods of sitting or standing and elevating the legs to alleviate symptoms and slow down the progression of varicose veins.
In cases where conservative measures are insufficient, your vascular doctors will discuss additional treatment options with their patients. Compression stockings, for example, can be highly effective in improving blood flow and relieving symptoms, particularly in milder cases of varicose veins. For patients with smaller varicose veins and spider veins, sclerotherapy is a commonly recommended procedure. It involves injecting a special solution into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and gradually fade away.
Working closely with a vascular doctor, patients can receive personalised care, including lifestyle recommendations, conservative treatments, or minimally invasive procedures, to alleviate symptoms and improve their vascular health.
The Most Prevalent Vascular Diseases and How To Recognise The Symptoms
Varicose veins are a prevalent vascular condition, commonly characterised by visible veins on the thighs or calves. Symptoms include discomfort, aches, heaviness in the legs, night cramps, and leg swelling. Unfortunately, many patients tend to downplay these symptoms. There is also a significant amount of misinformation about varicose veins and their treatments, both among healthcare professionals and among patients themselves.
Varicose veins primarily affect women and can worsen over time if left untreated. The symptoms can progress to more serious issues such as skin eczema, discolouration, and painful open sores or non-healing ulcers. It is crucial for patients to recognise and report varicose vein symptoms to specialists like vascular surgeons, who can provide appropriate treatment. By doing so, patients can significantly improve their treatment outcomes and quality of life.
Diagnostic Tools and Techniques for Varicose Veins
There are several diagnostic tools and techniques available to healthcare providers for assessing and diagnosing varicose veins. These tools help to evaluate the extent of the condition, identify any underlying venous insufficiency, and guide appropriate treatment options. Here are some commonly used diagnostic tools for varicose veins:
1. Duplex Ultrasound
The duplex ultrasound evaluates the condition of the vein and the blood flow. By day, we can assess the cause and origin of reflux, the severity of venous insufficiency, contributing factors, and the varicose veins involved.
2. Computed tomography venography (CT venogram)
A CT scan, done in the Radiology Department, is a type of X-ray that uses a computer to make cross-sectional images of your body. CT Angiography combines a CT scan with an injection of a special dye to produce a picture of blood vessels and tissues in a part of the body. The dye injected to perform CT angiography is called the contrast material because it lights up the blood vessels and tissues that are studied. These images will help surgeons plan the best treatment for the patient’s condition.
Treatment Options and Management for Varicose Veins
Contrary to misconceptions, medical intervention for varicose veins is readily available and requires minimal downtime after treatment. Home-based remedies, on the other hand, provide temporary relief of symptoms without addressing the underlying causes of varicose veins.
Many patients initially attempted home-based treatments such as wearing compression stockings and elevating their legs regularly. Some also relied on over-the-counter painkillers to manage leg discomfort. However, it is crucial to seek specialised care immediately if the measures they took did not effectively alleviate their symptoms.
Fortunately, there are various affordable and minimally invasive treatment options available. There are two types of laser treatments, endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) and non-thermal non-tumescent (NTNT) ablation treatments. The choice of treatment varies depending on the individual patient, but all these procedures aim to address the root cause of varicose veins and significantly improve the patient’s quality of life.
It is crucial to make information, treatment options, and specialised care easily accessible to patients. This enables the patient to make informed decisions regarding varicose vein treatment and regain control of their situation through specialised care.
The Advantages of Treating Varicose Veins
The advantages of treating varicose veins significantly surpass any potential inconveniences, if any are present at all. Research has demonstrated that neglecting varicose veins can result in severe complications like vein ruptures and excessive bleeding. Recurrent leg infections and other reported issues include permanent skin damage and the development of painful ulcers that require a lengthy healing process.
Furthermore, severe varicose veins have been associated with the formation of blood clots, leading to substantial swelling in the affected area(s) and the potentially life-threatening condition known as deep vein thrombosis. By addressing the underlying cause of the condition through effective treatment options, patients can swiftly regain a higher quality of life.
Summary
Understanding varicose veins requires a comprehensive approach. This involves consulting with vascular doctors and using tests to diagnose. The problem, and considering different treatment options. By learning about how varicose veins work, seeking expert help, and actively being involved in treatment decisions, individuals can start their journey towards healthier veins.
If you are experiencing symptoms or have concerns about varicose veins, we encourage you to contact us today via phone or email to schedule a consultation with a vascular doctor. They can provide valuable insights, perform necessary diagnostic tests, and guide you toward optimal vascular health. Remember, the key to unlocking the secrets lies in your hands, and with the support of a knowledgeable and experienced vascular doctor, you can take control of your vein health and enhance your overall well-being.
Information Shared By
Dr Tan Kia Lean
Consultant Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon
