what are varicose veins?
Varicose veins occur when veins become enlarged, dilated, and filled with blood, often due to malfunctioning valves within the veins.
Normally, blood flows smoothly toward the heart, with tiny valves opening and closing to prevent the backward flow of blood. However, if these valves weaken or become damaged, blood can flow backward and pool in the vein, causing it to swell and enlarge, leading to varicose veins.
Causes of varicose veins
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing varicose veins, including:
- Having a family history of varicose veins
- Aging
- Being overweight (obesity)
- Jobs that require long periods of standing or sitting
- Pregnancy
- Sudden weight loss
- Smoking and alcohol consumption
Taking care of your vein health is essential to prevent the development of varicose veins and maintain overall well-being.
Symptoms of varicose veins
The main symptoms of varicose veins include highly visible, misshapen veins, typically on the legs, along with pain, swelling, heaviness, and discomfort around the affected area. In some cases, swelling and skin discoloration may occur. In more severe cases, varicose veins can lead to significant bleeding or the development of ulcers. At Bijan Clinic, we offer comprehensive treatments to address these symptoms and prevent further complications.
Varicose veins ,treat it or not ?
Varicose vein disease is a progressive condition that, if left untreated, can result in even more swollen and engorged veins. In the early stages, they may appear as small blue or red spider veins on the legs and feet, gradually becoming more prominent, thicker, and taking on a purple or dark blue color. Many people initially manage the condition with compression stockings or occasional sclerotherapy.
As the disease progresses, the veins can become rope-like, extending from the thighs down to the legs, often requiring more advanced treatments like endovascular laser therapy.
What happens if varicose veins are left untreated? They can bleed under the skin, causing dark brown pigmentation, lead to increasing pain or discomfort in the legs, and in the worst cases, raise the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a serious blood clot condition.