Varicose Veins: Causes and Relief Options

Varicose veins are a widespread vascular condition that affects millions globally and becomes more frequent with age. It is estimated that at least one-fifth of the world’s population experiences this problem at some point during their lives. Swollen and twisted veins are more than just an aesthetic matter – they are a substantial medical concern that can lead to massive discomfort and various health issues. While the fastest and most effective way to get rid of varicose veins is to undergo surgery, other, less invasive options exist that can provide relief and improve the condition, promoting the person’s comfort and well-being.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are blue or purple bulging blood vessels, most often found in the legs and feet. They develop when the valves in the veins, which are responsible for ensuring that blood flows in one direction toward the heart, weaken or damage permanently, causing blood to pool and veins to swell, twist, and become visible under the skin.

Apart from being rather unsightly, varicose veins may also lead to pain, aching, discomfort, and leg heaviness. If left untreated for a long time, varicose veins can sometimes result in more serious complications and health issues, including venous ulcers, which are open sores near the ankles, as well as thrombophlebitis, a condition involving vein inflammation, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT), characterized by blood clot formation in the deep veins.

The Causes and Risk Factors of Varicose Veins

Understanding the causes and risk factors of varicose veins is essential for prevention and effective treatment. Some of the main factors contributing to varicose veins include:

Genetics:

• Research suggests that patients whose parents or close relatives suffer from varicose veins have a 50% higher risk of developing this problem than individuals without a family history of the condition.
• If both parents have varicose veins, the chance of their children developing this condition is close to 90%.
• The person’s genetic code can make them more likely to have weakened vein walls and faulty valves, which can lead to varicose veins.

Age and gender:

• As people grow older, their veins lose natural elasticity, becoming more prone to dilation and the formation of varicose veins.
• Varicose veins are more common in women (55%) than men (45%). Among factors contributing to this are hormonal fluctuations, especially during pregnancy and menopause.

Lifestyle choices:

• Jobs that require long periods of standing or sitting increase the risk of varicose veins by 50%.
• Long periods of immobility can hinder blood circulation, leading to vein dilation and the development of varicose veins.
• Heavy consumption of alcohol and smoking can increase the risk of developing or worsening varicose veins by up to 50%.

Obesity:

• Being overweight or obese can elevate the risk of varicose veins by nearly 33%.
• Excess weight places added pressure on the leg veins, making them more susceptible to dilation.
• Women with obesity are three times as likely to develop varicose veins as women who are not overweight.

The above facts and statistics illustrate the widespread and complex nature of varicose veins. Dealing with the problem – whether through medication, surgery, or lifestyle changes – requires a thorough analysis and understanding of its contributing causes.

Non-Surgical Ways to Deal with Varicose Veins

In the early stages, the problem of varicose veins can be managed quite effectively with the help of simple lifestyle changes and non-pharmacological solutions. These include doing regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, giving up alcohol and smoking, and using compression stockings.

However, for advanced cases or persistent symptoms, patients should consult a healthcare professional who can recommend tailored treatment options that might include using some of the following medications and herbal supplements:

Hydroxyethylrutoside

Hydroxyethylrutoside is another dietary supplement often used in the management of varicose veins. The supplement helps enhance vein tone and reduce inflammation, contributing to the relief of symptoms like swollen legs, soreness, and discomfort.

Hydroxyethylrutoside has few reported side effects, including mild gastrointestinal discomfort or skin reactions. It is not recommended for use by patients with known allergies to any of the substance’s components. Hydroxyethylrutoside and Hydroxyethylrutoside-based supplements can be purchased via Pharmacy Mall referral online service.

Polidocanol

Polidocanol is a well-known sclerosing agent that helps alleviate the discomfort and cosmetic concerns associated with varicose veins. This liquid substance is injected directly into the varicose veins or spider veins. Polidocanol works by irritating the inner lining of the vein walls and causing the walls of the affected veins to stick together, leading to their closure or collapse. It can reduce symptoms such as pain and swelling.

Because of its lower incidence of side effects and complications, polidocanol is considered superior to other sclerosing agents like sodium tetradecyl sulphate. However, some unwanted effects may still occur, including mild pain and discomfort, bruising, redness, swelling, skin discoloration, and – rarely – blood clots and ulcerations.

Daflon

Daflon is a dietary supplement used to manage varicose veins and related symptoms. It contains bioflavonoids (diosmin and hesperidin) to strengthen vein walls, improve blood flow, and alleviate symptoms associated with venous insufficiency, such as leg swelling, pain, and discomfort.

Common mild side effects experienced by people using Daflon may include gastrointestinal issues like stomach discomfort and diarrhea, headaches, and skin rashes. This dietary remedy is not suitable for individuals who are allergic to any of its ingredients, have a history of kidney disease or kidney stones, or take meds that can interact unsafely with Daflon.

Any of the above products should always be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional who can assess the patient’s specific condition and prescribe the most appropriate treatment.

When Is Surgery The Best Way to Go?

When lifestyle changes and non-invasive treatments fail to provide relief, and the symptoms of varicose veins are severe, causing significant discomfort and affecting the patient’s daily life, doctors might advise surgery. Invasive forms of treatment, such as endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) or vein stripping, are also often recommended when complications like venous ulcers, thrombophlebitis, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) arise.