Valuable Information About Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are veins that have difficulty with blood flow, may have backup blood flow, and weakened vein walls and valves. Varicose veins are distended, superficial veins that are seen just under the skin or raised on the skin. Varicose veins are dark blue, red or purple in color.
Surgical treatment of varicose veins may be indicated for several different reasons: cosmetic, when severe symptoms of throbbing and tenderness occur, or when medical complications happen like bleeding, a blood clot, or a traumatized vein that is tender and inflamed.
Prevention is available in the form of diet, exercise, wearing support hose and rest.
Surgical Procedures:
Exploratory surgery: this is done to locate veins below the surface and involves making a 3-4cm incision in the groin or just below the knee. Surgery is then performed to correct the cause of the varicose vein.
Vein stripping:
This is done to reduce the risk of future recurrence of the varicosity.
Surgical removal of the vein:
Larger varicose veins are removed. This may leave scarring. A determination may need to be done between the cosmetic benefits of removing the vein and any resultant scarring from the surgery.
Sclerotherapy:
This involves injecting a substance (usually sclerosant) into the vein. The solution causes the walls of the vein to adhere to each other. The vein does not receive blood flow and fades. Sometimes there is brown staining on the skin following this procedure. If the solution is injected outside the vein or leaks to the tissue outside of the vein a skin ulcer may result.
Prevention:
If there is a family history of varicose veins, you are overweight, have a sedentary job, stand a lot, or are pregnant; you may wish to consider preventative measure for varicose veins.
It is possible to minimize or reduce your risk for varicose veins by following the tips below:
During pregnancy ask your obstetrician about wearing compression support hose to help blood flow and to take the pressure off of your veins.
Compression support hose can also help those who stand for long periods of time. These special hose can be purchased by prescription only as they must be fitted to your legs.
Constipation can add to the pressure on your lower body, so making sure that you avoid constipation by way of diet and exercise will be beneficial. A good diet to follow is one where plenty of fiber, water and vitamins C and E are taken. Ask your medical professional for advise on diet and vitamin supplements.
Exercise that strengthens legs is advised. These exercises can be done while sitting or standing. Ask your physician to advise you. You may be referred to a physical therapist for further instruction. Walking, running and swimming are all good leg strengthening exercises.
Standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time can aggravate leg blood flow. It is important to take frequent breaks where you can elevate your legs or stretch them. If standing for long periods of time, try shifting your weight from one leg to the other. There are exercises you can do such as tiptoe and release, flexing or bending your legs, rotating your feet and lifting your legs.
Any kind of activity that exercises the legs is good. Make the choice to take the stairs instead of riding the elevator. Walk short distances instead of driving. Walk the dog after work.
Recommended Reading
- Preventing Varicose Veins
- Preventing Varicose Veins Through Exercise And Diet
- Varicose Veins An Overview
- The Why How What And When Of Varicose Veins
- Treatment For Varicose Veins
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