Varicose Veins Treatment – Diagnosis, Surgery & Recovery
Do you have painful and bulging veins in the legs? These symptoms often indicate varicose veins, which is a common vascular condition. Seek timely care for the condition at SurgiKure and consult our highly experienced vascular surgeon to get advanced and minimally invasive varicose veins surgery. We leverage modern laser technology and other surgical techniques as required to effectively resolve the condition and provide long-lasting relief to the patient.
What is Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted, or swollen superficial veins that usually appear on the legs or feet. They are located just beneath the surface of the skin and are commonly caused due to defects in the valves within the veins that allow blood to flow in the wrong direction, often appearing in blue or dark purple.
Early-stage varicose veins symptoms may arise as spider veins, pain in the legs, etc., or the condition may remain asymptomatic entirely for a long time. In most cases, varicose veins are caused due to venous insufficiency, which progresses in stages. In general, varicose veins stages include the following:
Stage 1: Spider Veins- These are dilated capillaries that give a web-like appearance on the affected area. Spider veins form when the capillaries are compressed due to an underlying condition.
Stage 2: Varicose Veins- These are rope-like veins that bulge out due to the pooling of blood. They are clearly visible on the outside as it affects superficial veins.
Stage 3: Leg Edema- When excessive blood pools into the veins, it manifests as chronic leg swelling or edema, and the individual experiences restless leg syndrome and severe cramping.
Stage 4: Skin Changes- With progression, skin discoloration will start, and thin and brown spots will appear as the blood leaks from superficial veins into skin tissues.
Stage 5: Leg Ulcers- Without treatment, skin ulcers will start to form that will cause immense pain and itchiness and require constant care and monitoring.
Most people ignore varicose veins in their legs, believing that the condition is not dangerous and can resolve on its own. However, if left untreated, it can lead to life-threatening complications. Therefore, it is crucial to seek help from a vascular specialist as soon as possible.
Varicose Veins Diagnosis
Generally, varicose veins are diagnosed through a physical exam where the vascular surgeon examines the legs. The individual is asked to stand while the surgeon looks for signs of swelling, pooling of blood, bulging veins, and other symptoms.
The doctor may also ask to describe the pain and scenarios when the symptoms get worse. A detailed medical and family history of the patient is collected to evaluate if he/she is at high risk of developing varicose veins.
Before giving a confirmed diagnosis, the doctor may recommend a Doppler ultrasound test for varicose veins. This test involves using high-frequency sound waves to assess the anatomy and physiology of the venous system. It can determine which vein is malfunctioning and its severity. Clear images are created of the affected vein and blood flow through the vein valves. Additional imaging studies, such as computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, venography, etc., may be recommended if an underlying condition is identified through ultrasound.
