Bulging Varicose Veins Bugging You? Learn How to Manage Them

Are those bulging, blue veins in your legs starting to feel like more than just a cosmetic concern? You're not alone. Varicose veins are a surprisingly common issue, affecting 2-73% of the global population, depending on the region. That’s a wide range, but it underscores that this condition is far more prevalent than many people realise.
Let's discover the ten essential things your doctor wants you to know about managingvaricose veins.

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted or tortuous veins that often appear as bulging blue or purple cords on your legs. They occur when valves within the veins, which normally stop blood from flowing backwards, become weak, loose, or damaged. This causes the blood to pool and accumulate in the veins.

Normally, these valves work like one-way doors, preventing blood from flowing backwards. However, when these valves weaken or become damaged, blood can pool and build up in the veins, causing them to swell.

“Weakened vein walls and faulty valves lead to a reverse flow of blood, which is the primary culprit behind the development and complications of this condition,” explains Dr Sumit Kapadia, a Baroda-based vascular surgeon. While anyone can suffer from varicose veins, certain factors increase your risk. The causes of varicose veins are:

• Ageing: Weakening vein structure
• Pregnancy: Hormonal shifts and increased blood volume
• Heredity: Family history of the condition
• Weight: Obesity can put pressure on veins
• Occupation: Jobs involving prolonged standing or sitting

It's important to note that multiple factors often combine to cause varicose veins.

Varicose veins can cause various symptoms, from mild discomfort to more severe issues. Common symptoms of varicose veins include:

• Pain is often accompanied by a heavy or tired feeling in the legs.
• The affected legs may appear swollen, especially at the end of the day.
• Some people experience itching around the varicose veins.
• The skin near varicose veins may become discoloured, thickened, or develop sores in severe cases.
• The most obvious symptom is the appearance of enlarged, twisted veins on the legs.

"For years, I dismissed those bulging veins as a normal part of ageing. I endured the discomfort, the itching, and the constant heaviness in my legs. It wasn't until the veins started to bulge more prominently, and the pain became unbearable that I realised something was seriously wrong,” says Ranjeet, a 54-year-old patient with varicose veins.

While primarily a cosmetic concern, varicose veins can lead to more serious complications:

• Blood clots can potentially dislodge and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism — which blocks circulation to the lung tissue and is a life-threatening condition.
• Open sores develop on the skin, typically near the ankles. These ulcers occur due to chronic poor circulation caused by the inefficient blood flow in varicose veins.

To diagnose varicose veins, doctors start with a physical examination. They look for swollen, twisted veins and check for any changes in the skin. Other imaging tests show images of your veins and how blood is flowing through them, helping to pinpoint the area of concern.

Varicose vein treatment can include various methods, both surgical and non-surgical. The ideal approach depends on the severity of your condition and your overall health.

• Compression stockings: These specially designed stockings exert pressure on your legs to increase blood flow in the correct direction, reduce the pooling of blood, and reduce swelling.
• Surgical treatment: If your doctor recommends it, a solution is administered into the varicose vein, which contracts the vein and ultimately corrects the condition.

When non-invasive treatments for varicose veins aren’t sufficient, surgery may be necessary to treat larger, complicated varicose veins.

• Most patients experience little to no discomfort and can return to their regular activities in just a few days.
• It's important to wear compression stockings as recommended by the doctor.
• Avoid strenuous activities for a specified period. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing progress.
• The size and number of scars depend on the type of surgery performed. Modern techniques often involve minimal incisions. It may take several weeks for the treated veins to fade away completely.

While treatments can effectively manage symptoms and improve appearance, the condition can recur. Studies indicate a significant recurrence rate, even after surgical intervention. For instance, one study found that 30% of patients developed new varicose veins within two years of surgery, and another reported a 60% recurrence rate after five years.

While not a cure, certain lifestyle adjustments can help manage varicose veins:

• Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling can improve blood circulation.
• Keeping a healthy weight lessens the strain on your veins.
• Raising your legs above the level of your heart can aid in decreasing swelling.
• Taking breaks from prolonged sitting by walking around helps prevent blood from pooling.
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing; tight clothes can restrict blood flow.
• Drinking plenty of water supports blood circulation.

Varicose veins can significantly impact your quality of life. To manage them effectively, it is necessary to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for varicose veins. So, don't let those bulging veins hold you back — take control of your health today!