VEIN CARE

The definition of the word “varicose” means “abnormally swollen, dilated and overinflated.” For women, varicose veins mean ugly, purple veins protruding from the surface of the skin. For these women, it can start off as a cosmetic concern, with a preference for wearing pants, rather than a dress, to hide one’s legs. But left untreated, varicose veins can develop into serious vascular disease resulting in throbbing pain in the legs and ulcers in the lower leg as circulation is disrupted.

Inside your veins are tiny valves that open to let the blood through, and then close to prevent it flowing backwards. Over time, the vein walls can become stretched and lose their elasticity, causing the vein valves to weaken. If the valves do not function properly, this can cause the blood to leak and flow backwards. If this happens, the blood collects in your veins, which become swollen and enlarged.

According to the National Institutes on Health (NIH), about half of adult women develop some vein problems as they pass age 50. But only 25% of these women, however, develop visible varicose veins, compared to only 15% of men.

During the first visit with a vein care specialist, the physician uses a hand-held ultrasound instrument to listen to the blood flow through the veins. The most accurate test is a duplex ultrasound exam, which produces an ultrasound image of the vein. This reveals any blockage caused by blood clots and can indicate if the vein valves are functioning correctly or if they show venous reflux. Measurement of the leg’s vein function may also be achieved with tests such as plethysmography. These tests are non-invasive and painless.

Varicose veins indicate an underlying venous insufficiency disorder, whether symptomatic or not. Treatment can include wearing compression stockings and taking some medications. Compression stockings can reduce symtpoms like swelling and pain.

Low-dose diuretics (water pills) also reduce swelling in the short term. Topical steroid creams can reduce inflammation.

The vein care specialist will typically advise a patient with varicose veins to get their weight to a normal range, especially if they are obese, and increase exercise. When relaxing a person should elevate their legs to reduce the demand on the vein system.