Veins fulfill an essential function for health. They are responsible for transporting blood, which in turn carries many valuable minerals for the body. Now, your appearance may be affected for a number of reasons , with varicose veins being one of the most common, particularly in the legs.
What are varicose veins? What are your symptoms? How are they diagnosed and what is the way to treat this condition? Let’s see the answers right away.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are the veins when they are inflamed , making it possible for them to be seen through the skin. They can appear in different parts of the body, although the most common is the one located in the legs.
The mere presence of varicose veins is an indication that the health of the vessels is not ideal , although it should also be noted that it is not something serious, perhaps the bad appearance being the biggest problem.
symptoms of varicose veins
Within the symptoms that accompany varicose veins, the National Library of Medicine highlights the following factors.
- coloring. The veins turn blue.
- appearance. They look twisted and bulging.
- inflammation. This occurs not only in the veins, but also in the legs, or the area where there are varicose veins.
- itching_ This symptom usually appears right in the affected veins.
- heaviness_ There may be pain or a feeling of tiredness in the legs. This is one of the problems caused by the most recurring varicose veins.
The mere presence of some of these symptoms can allow us to know that it is varicose veins, even without the need for a medical check-up. It is necessary to point out that, in some people, the intensity of the mentioned problems can be very high, immobilizing them, and preventing them from carrying out their activities on a regular basis.
Causes of varicose veins
The reasons that give rise to the origin of varicose veins may vary from one person to another. The National Library of Medicine indicates which are the most common.
- Weakening of the veins. When these are damaged, or their resistance is low, they can cause blood to accumulate, causing varicose veins.
- deformation. This point is related to the previous one. It could happen that the blood reverses the natural flow, at least in a certain part, which generates pain, inflammation and heaviness. All these symptoms produce varicose veins over time.
- pregnancy. Due to the many changes that the mother undergoes, it is normal for the circulation in the veins to be altered.
- Other causes. Problems such as difficulty evacuating stool, being overweight or maintaining the same position for a long time, especially if standing, could be the reason that causes the alteration in the condition of the veins.
Whatever the cause, it is best to consult a health professional , in order to help you know the best way to treat the condition.
Diagnosis of varicose veins
To find out if a person has varicose veins or not, the most reliable method is a physical examination by a professional doctor . In addition, the doctor must request information that allows to fully confirm the presence of this condition, such as if any family member has or has had this problem, as well as the symptoms that the patient suffers.
It is also possible that studies are carried out that contribute to knowing the extent of varicose veins, although these require specialized medical teams. For example, ultrasound or x-ray . Through them, it is very easy to see how affected the veins are.
Treatment of varicose veins
First of all, it is good to know that, in most cases, beyond the deformed appearance that they may present, varicose veins do not cause any serious health problem. On such occasions, the doctor may simply not prescribe any treatment . For other patients, you can make use of one of the following options.
Medication for legs with varicose veins
When the symptoms caused by this condition are intense, to the point of affecting the performance of some activities during the day, the health expert, together with the patient, the medications for varicose veins can devise an action plan, which will focus on the reduction of symptoms . That is, if the pain is present, the use of analgesics is suggested, or if it is inflammation in the veins or legs, the use of anti-inflammatories, whether topical or oral, is prescribed.
