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Varicose Veins |
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Definition
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted, painful veins
that have filled with an abnormal collection of blood.
Causes
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The small valves normally located
within the veins responsible for moving blood and
fluid through the legs may become weak and
dysfunctional, allowing blood and fluid to collect
in the legs, causing veins to dilate, and the legs
to swell.
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Many conditions may cause the
valves to become weak. Whatever prevents normal
blood flow out of the legs and increases pressure
within the veins may be a factor, such as pregnancy,
cancer, prolonged standing, or heavy lifting.
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Some patients have inherited
weakness of the veins, while others may have had
blood clots in the leg or some other injury that
damaged the valves.
Symptoms
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Usually it does not cause any
symptoms, and is primarily a cosmetic problem.
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In some cases, it may cause
fatigue or pain and discomfort in the leg.
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If left untreated, over time the
veins become progressively larger. This can lead to
Chronic Venous
Insufficiency and associated changes, such as
swelling, skin changes, and occasionally ulcers.
Blood clots may develop in the
varicose veins, particularly in those who are
pregnant, taking birth control pills, or who are
bedridden.
Screening and
Diagnostics
Ultrasound
(sound waves used to take pictures) may be used to
examine the valves within the veins.
Treatment
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The stockings should
not go above the knee.
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They should be used
whenever the person is standing or sitting.
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The legs should be
kept elevated as much as possible.
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This treatment option
is a good choice for those who do not want
surgery, those who do not have severe varicose
veins, older people, and in women who plan to
become pregnant again.
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Advised for cases of
severe or moderately severe varicose veins.
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If there is an ulcer
on the foot, it should be treated before surgery.
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Recommended for the
varicose veins still present after surgery.
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The risks with this
procedure include infection of the vein, infection
of the skin, and destruction of the surrounding
skin if the medicine leaks out of the vein.
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Advise the doctor if
you are taking birth control drugs before
sclerotherapy, as such medications will have to be
stopped 6 weeks before the procedure because of
the risk of blood clot formation.
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Treatment is usually
successful. However, in some, varicose veins can
develop again. More surgery or sclerotherapy may be
required. Also, some of the skin changes found in
people who have had varicose veins for a long time
may not completely heal.
Prevention
Avoid prolonged standing if personal or family history
indicates you are at risk of developing varicose
veins.
Complications
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