Definition: Varicose veins are swollen, twisted, and visible veins, usually on the legs, caused by valve dysfunction in the veins.

Prevalence: Varicose veins affect about 30% of the population, making them a common condition.

Primary Symptoms: Visible, swollen, twisted veins that are usually blue or dark purple.

Additional Symptoms: Heavy, achy, or painful legs, especially after prolonged standing or sitting. Swollen legs, throbbing, burning sensations, or muscle cramps at night are less common.

Complications: Generally, varicose veins do not have serious complications, but in rare cases (around 1%), they can cause ulcers, bleeding, or thrombophlebitis (blood clots in varicose veins).

Serious Risk: Varicose veins can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially life-threatening condition if a clot dislodges and obstructs the lungs.

Causes: Dysfunction in vein valves, aging, genetics, hormonal influences (especially estrogen), pregnancy, prolonged sitting or standing, and obesity.

Types of Varicose Veins:

Trunk Varicose Veins: Large, twisted veins visible under the skin, mostly on the legs.
Reticular Varicose Veins: Smaller, visible veins under the skin, commonly found around the knees, thighs, and buttocks.
Spider Veins (Telangiectasia): Tiny blue, red, or purple veins close to the skin's surface, mainly a cosmetic concern.
Vein Valve Dysfunction: The underlying cause of varicose veins is the malfunctioning of vein valves, leading to blood pooling and vein enlargement.

Non-Varicose Prominent Veins: In fit or muscular individuals, prominent veins due to low body fat and increased muscle mass are not considered varicose veins unless they are twisted and have decreased blood flow.

Home Treatments:

Compression Stockings: Apply pressure to the legs, improving blood flow.
Exercise: Improves circulation and strengthens calf muscles.
Weight Loss: Reduces pressure on the veins.
Avoid Prolonged Sitting/Standing: Take breaks to move around.
Leg Elevation: Reduces pressure in the veins.
Sclerotherapy: A treatment method involving the injection of a solution into the vein, causing it to close. Multiple veins can be treated in a single session.

Medications and Supplements:

Diosmin and Hesperidin: Used to relieve symptoms and swelling.
Horse Chestnut Extract: Reduces swelling and improves venous tone.
Grape Seed Extract: Strengthens vein walls and improves circulation.
Troxerutin: Improves microcirculation.
Advanced Treatments:

Laser Treatment: Uses laser energy to collapse and seal veins.
Radiofrequency Ablation: Uses radiofrequency energy to close off large varicose veins.
Surgical Ligation and Stripping: An invasive method to remove varicose veins, less commonly used.
Prognosis: While treatments can effectively manage symptoms and reduce the appearance of varicose veins, they do not prevent the formation of new varicose veins. Regular follow-up and lifestyle adjustments are important for long-term management.

Disclaimer:

This information is provided for general knowledge and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your doctor for any questions or concerns you may have about your health.

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