Varicose veins, Causes and Treatment – Video Talk
Varicose veins are large and swollen veins often appearing on the legs and thighs. This happens when the blood does not flow effectively as the valves in the veins do not work properly.
കാലുകളിലെ ഞരമ്പുകളിൽ ഈ ലക്ഷണം ഉള്ളവർ ഈ വീഡിയോ കാണാതെ പോകരുത്
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Talk by Dr. R. Padmakumar, Senior Consultant Laparoscopic & Bariatric Surgeon, Keyhole Clinic, Edappally, VPS Lakeshore Hospital, Kochi
Read More on Varicose VeinsThe most commonly affected areas by varicose veins are the lower limbs or legs. This is because there is increased pressure in the veins of the lower body due to standing.
Evaluation may include ultrasound of the abdomen to check for any block or pressure on the veins and venous Doppler to look for
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – block in the inner veins
- to detect inefficiency of valves
- course of superficial veins
- location of connecting veins
- any DVT or to detect inefficiency of valves, etc.
There are various options for treatment including some home remedies. In severe cases, a varicose vein may bleed due to rupture or develop into varicose ulcers on the skin.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins
In most of the cases, there is no pain. Signs and symptoms of varicose veins may include:
- Spider veins or telangiectasia in the affected leg
- veins appearing twisted, swollen, and lumpy or bulging,
- the veins appear blue or dark purple in color,
- aching legs,
- legs feeling heavy especially after standing for long,
- a minor injury to the affected area may result in heavy bleeding,
- lipodermatosclerosis – fat under the skin just above the ankle can become hard. This results in skin shrinking,
- swollen ankles
- venous eczema (stasis dermatitis) – red, dry, and itchy skin in the affected area
- Hair loss
- Ulcer
