What Are Varicose Veins? What Causes Varicose Veins, Their Symptoms and Treatment

What are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are the swelling and enlargement of blood vessels just beneath the skin or near the surface of the skin, caused by increased blood pressure in the veins of the lower body. Ageing, pregnancy, excessive weight and obesity, prolonged sitting or standing, or a sedentary lifestyle are among the main causes of varicose veins.

Varicose veins, which are commonly seen in the legs, can significantly affect quality of life. Varicose veins can be controlled with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment methods. Although varicose veins affect a significant portion of the population and are more common in individuals over the age of 50, they can also occur at a younger age due to genetic factors, a sedentary lifestyle, and prolonged standing. This condition, which can manifest as spider veins or larger dilated veins, can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.

Although unsightly, varicose veins are primarily a health issue. If varicose veins, which manifest as symptoms such as leg pain, swelling, fatigue, skin discolouration and itching, are not detected and treated early on, they can lead to problems such as open skin wounds, infection and skin discolouration.

What are the Types of Varicose Veins?

There are four different types of varicose veins, each with its own characteristics. They are distinguished by their shape, area of effect and symptoms. In addition to spoiling the aesthetic appearance of the body, they can also lead to serious health problems.

The types of varicose veins are as follows:

• Spider web varicose veins
• Reticular varicose veins
• Large vein varicose veins (Saphenous vein varicose veins)
• Deep vein varicose veins

Spider Web Varicose Veins

Spider veins are thin, dilated blood vessels that appear just beneath the skin and are red, blue, or purple in colour. They typically appear on the face and legs. These varicose veins, which are caused by the dilation of capillaries, do not cause pain but may cause aesthetic concerns.

Reticular Varicose Veins

Reticular varicose veins are slightly larger than spider veins, blue or purple in colour, and are dilated veins close to the skin's surface. They are commonly seen on the back of the knee, thigh, and around the ankle. They may cause mild pain and itching but generally do not lead to serious health problems.

Large Vein Varicose Veins (Saphenous Vein Varicose Veins)

This type of varicose vein occurs due to the dilation of the saphenous veins and causes noticeable swelling in the legs. It is most commonly seen in people who stand for long periods of time and can cause symptoms such as heaviness, pain and swelling in the legs. If left untreated, it can lead to skin ulcers and serious circulation problems.

Deep Vein Varicose Veins

Deep vein varicose veins are dilations that form in the deep veins of the legs but are not visible on the skin's surface. They can significantly affect circulation and may lead to dangerous conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) over time. They present with symptoms such as pain, swelling, and increased heat in the leg. Early diagnosis and treatment of this type of varicose vein are crucial.

What are the Stages of Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins manifest themselves in different stages, each with its own specific symptoms. Varicose vein symptoms, which may be mild at first, can lead to more serious problems in later stages. The course of the disease and the treatment plan vary depending on the stage of the varicose veins.

The stages of varicose veins are as follows:

• C0 - No apparent or palpable disease
• C1 - Spider veins or reticular capillaries,
• C2 - Large varicose veins,
• C3 - Oedema in the feet and ankles,
• C4a - Colour changes and eczema on the feet,
• C4b - Skin changes, skin depressions,
• C5 -C4'e ilave olarak iyileşmiş yaralar,
• C6 - Active ulcers with skin changes.

Early diagnosis and treatment are particularly important for individuals who develop varicose veins at a young age. When early-stage symptoms such as spider veins are detected, the progression of the disease can be prevented with appropriate treatment methods. Different treatment approaches can be applied at each stage, and necessary measures can be taken to improve quality of life.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins occur when superficial veins enlarge, twist and swell due to increased blood pressure in the veins. Factors contributing to this include ageing, gender, genetics, obesity, pregnancy and prolonged standing or sitting.

The causes of varicose veins are as follows:

• Ageing
• Gender
• Genetic predisposition
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Standing or sitting for long periods
• Cigarette consumption
• Wearing tight-fitting clothes

Ageing

As we age, the elasticity of our veins diminishes, leading to a weakening of the valves that prevent blood from flowing backwards. As a result, blood pools in the veins of the legs, causing varicose veins to form. This process is considered a natural consequence of ageing.

Gender

Women are more prone to developing varicose veins due to hormonal changes. Increased hormone levels, particularly during pregnancy, menopause or when using birth control pills, can cause the vein walls to weaken and increase the risk of varicose veins.

Genetic Predisposition

Individuals with a family history of varicose veins are at higher risk of developing this condition. Genetic factors can contribute to the formation of varicose veins by affecting the structure of the vein walls and the functionality of the valves.

Obesity

Excess weight puts additional pressure on the veins in the legs. This increased pressure can trigger the formation of varicose veins by causing the veins to dilate and the valves to malfunction.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, blood volume increases and hormone levels change. These changes can cause blood vessels to dilate and increase the risk of varicose veins. In addition, the growing uterus can press on the blood vessels in the pelvic area, affecting blood flow in the legs.

Standing or Sitting for Long Periods

Remaining inactive for long periods of time negatively affects blood circulation in the legs. When standing or sitting, it becomes more difficult for blood to return to the heart, which can lead to dilation of the veins and the formation of varicose veins.

Who Is Affected By Varicose Veins?

According to some studies, approximately 25% of adults suffer from varicose veins. This condition, which arises from insufficient valves in the veins, may be more common in certain risk groups. In recent years, due to reasons such as the sedentary lifestyle brought about by modern times and increased time spent standing, the incidence of varicose veins at a young age has been seen to increase rapidly. Due to reasons such as hormonal changes and pregnancy, women may be at higher risk of developing varicose veins compared to men.

Genetic factors also play a significant role among the causes of varicose veins; individuals with a family history of varicose veins are more likely to develop the condition. Obesity, advanced age, pregnancy and menopause are important risk factors for varicose veins. Varicose veins may also be more common in individuals working in professions that require prolonged standing, such as teaching, waitressing, hairdressing, and healthcare. Additionally, blockages in the veins, such as deep venous insufficiency, and valve insufficiency may also cause varicose vein symptoms to appear.

What Are The Symptoms Of Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins present with symptoms such as pain or heaviness in the legs, burning, throbbing, muscle cramps and swelling in the lower legs, increased pain after prolonged sitting or standing, itching around one or more veins, and changes in skin colour around the varicose vein.

The symptoms of varicose veins are as follows:

• Pain or heaviness in the legs
• Formation of capillaries in the leg
• Burning, throbbing, muscle cramps in the lower legs
• Swelling in the ankle
• Bruising on the ankles
• Increased pain after prolonged sitting or standing
• Sagging of the skin over the ankle due to hardening of the subcutaneous fat layer
• Itching around one or more veins
• Change in skin colour around the varicose vein
• Restless legs syndrome sometimes accompanying the condition

In addition to the symptoms listed above, skin discolouration and open sores known as venous ulcers may occur if treatment is not started early.

How Are Varicose Veins Diagnosed?

During the physical examination for varicose vein diagnosis, the condition of the veins in the legs, swelling, and skin changes are examined in detail. Doppler examination, an advanced form of ultrasound technology, provides important information about blood flow in the veins, vein diameters, and the condition of the valves. This painless and side-effect-free examination method plays an important role in detecting problems in both superficial and deep veins.

Doppler ultrasound examination can detect the internal structure of the veins, the direction and speed of blood flow, the condition of the vein walls, and possible clots. This allows the most appropriate treatment plan to be developed for different conditions, ranging from milder stages such as spider veins to more advanced cases of varicose veins.

How Are Varicose Veins Treated?

After determining the stage of varicose veins, specialists can create a treatment plan tailored to the patient. Varicose vein treatment methods vary depending on the type and severity of varicose veins.

Injection Therapy (Sclerotherapy)

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins and spider veins. During the procedure, a chemical substance is injected into the vein using a fine needle, irritating the vein's lining and causing it to close over time. This procedure, which takes approximately 30-45 minutes, typically allows patients to return to normal activities the same day. It is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise and hot baths for a few days after the procedure.

Side effects of sclerotherapy may include mild burning, cramping, temporary discolouration, small bruises and swelling at the injection site. In rare cases, allergic reactions or blood clots may occur. Sclerotherapy can be used to treat varicose veins in the legs and other areas of the body, as well as small spider veins or certain vascular diseases such as chronic venous insufficiency.

Endovenous Thermal Ablation (Laser Treatment)

Endovenous thermal ablation, also known as laser treatment, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser or radiofrequency energy to generate high heat to close varicose veins. During the treatment, the doctor first numbs the area with local anaesthetic. Then, a thin catheter is inserted into the vein through a small incision, usually made below the knee, under ultrasound guidance.

Radiofrequency energy delivered through the tip of the catheter heats the inner wall of the artery, causing it to close. Once the procedure is complete, the catheter is removed and a compression bandage is applied to the area. The patient can resume normal activities the same day, but it is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise for a period of time.

Phlebectomy

Phlebectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat superficial varicose veins. Performed under local anaesthesia, the phlebectomy involves the doctor making small incisions in the skin and removing the varicose veins using a special hook-like instrument. The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes. Patients can usually be discharged on the same day.

Although phlebectomy is used more often to treat small and medium-sized varicose veins, it can also be used in conjunction with additional treatments such as laser therapy for larger varicose veins. Side effects of phlebectomy may include slight bruising, swelling and, rarely, infection. Specialists may advise the patient to wear compression stockings for several weeks after the procedure and to avoid strenuous physical activity.

Varicose Vein Surgery (Ligation And Stripping)

Varicose vein surgery (venous ligation and stripping) is a surgical procedure performed to treat large and severely uncomfortable varicose veins. The procedure is usually performed under general or regional anaesthesia, during which a specialist surgeon makes small incisions in the groin, ankle or knee area. First, the varicose vein is tied off and closed (ligation), then a special wire (stripper wire) is inserted into the vein. The wire is advanced along the vein, pulled out through the lower incision, and the vein is completely removed (stripping).

The ligation and stripping procedure, which is generally performed on large varicose veins, takes approximately 1-3 hours. Side effects of varicose vein surgery may include swelling, bruising, mild pain and, rarely, infection. During the recovery process, it is important for the patient to wear compression stockings, keep their leg elevated and follow the doctor's recommendations.

Varicose Veins Stockings

Compression stockings are medical stockings that prevent blood from flowing backwards in the veins by applying a specific amount of pressure to the legs from the outside. The pressure is designed to decrease from the foot upwards (graduated compression), which supports circulation. However, they are not a complete treatment method on their own, but rather help to alleviate symptoms and halt progression.

What Is Good For Varicose Veins?

Methods that are beneficial for varicose veins include regular exercise, performing movements that raise the legs, walking, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing salt intake, drinking plenty of water, consuming fibre-rich foods, and wearing compression stockings if necessary.

The following methods are beneficial for varicose veins:

• Doing regular exercise
• Performing movements that lift the legs upwards
• To go for a walk
• To control one's weight
• Reducing salt consumption
• Drink plenty of water
• Consuming fibre-rich foods
• Wearing compression stockings
• Do not wear tight-fitting clothes

Doing Regular Exercise

One of the most fundamental ways to increase blood flow in the legs is to exercise and walk regularly. This is also one of the methods that is beneficial for varicose veins.

Performing Movements That Lift The Legs Upwards

Performing movements that raise the legs to heart level also benefits the blood vessels by accelerating blood flow.

Lose Weight

Losing weight and slimming down helps with varicose veins by reducing pressure on the veins.

How To Get Rid Of Varicose Veins?

Treatment for varicose veins typically involves compression stockings, injection therapies, exercise programmes, and, where necessary, surgical intervention. The most appropriate treatment decision is made by the doctor.

How Can Varicose Veins In The Legs Be Treated?

It is important to begin varicose vein treatment with lifestyle changes. There are some methods that can be applied at home to alleviate varicose vein symptoms. Regular exercise and adopting healthy eating habits are the first steps. Keeping the legs elevated, avoiding tight-fitting clothing, and using compression stockings, which can help reduce complaints by regulating blood circulation, can be effective for treating varicose veins at home.

Additionally, regular exercise such as walking, swimming, and leg exercises can slow the progression of varicose veins and alleviate symptoms. As conditions that begin with milder symptoms such as spider veins can lead to serious risks over time, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Therefore, especially when varicose veins appear at a young age, regular medical check-ups alongside lifestyle changes are important to prevent the progression of the disease.

Ways To Prevent Varicose Veins

To prevent varicose veins, it is necessary to avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time, wear compression stockings regularly during pregnancy, walk regularly, avoid heat, and maintain an ideal weight.

Some methods that may help prevent varicose veins are as follows:

• Avoid standing for long periods of time
• Wearing regular compression stockings during pregnancy
• Take regular walks
• Elevating your legs for half an hour in the evenings
• Avoiding the heat
• Wash your legs with cold water
• Use hormone medications under a doctor's supervision
• Maintaining your ideal weight

There is currently no medication available to help prevent varicose veins. The measures listed may help minimise the risk of developing varicose veins.

Frequently Asked Questions About Varicose Veins

What Causes Varicose Veins At A Young Age?

The development of varicose veins at a young age is usually caused by genetic predisposition, a sedentary lifestyle, and jobs that require standing for long periods of time. Hormonal changes, pregnancy, obesity, and frequently wearing high-heeled shoes can also increase the risk of varicose veins at a young age.

What Does Varicose Vein Mean?

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that can be seen just beneath the skin. They are most commonly found on the legs but can also occur in other areas of the body.

How Can Varicose Veins Be Recognised?

Varicose veins present themselves with symptoms that should be taken seriously, such as leg pain, fatigue, rash, redness, leg swelling, blood clots or wounds.

What Is The Purpose Of Compression Stockings?

Compression stockings apply pressure to the legs, facilitating the return of blood to the heart. They are effective in reducing swelling, pain and the progression of varicose veins.

Which Doctor Should One See For Varicose Veins?

For varicose vein complaints, you should consult a heart and vascular surgeon. Diagnosis is made using tests such as vascular ultrasound, and an appropriate treatment plan is devised.

What Helps With Varicose Vein Pain?

Lifting your legs, taking a cold shower and wearing compression stockings will ease the pain. Light exercise also improves circulation and provides relief.

Can Varicose Veins Be Treated At Home?

Lifestyle changes made at home can alleviate varicose vein symptoms. However, it is essential to consult a specialist for permanent treatment.

Does Varicose Veins Go Away When You Lose Weight?

Losing weight reduces pressure on the varicose veins, alleviating symptoms. However, the varicose veins may not disappear completely, and supportive treatments may be required.

What Happens If Varicose Veins Are Not Treated?

Untreated varicose veins can lead to serious health problems over time. Although varicose veins in the legs may initially appear to be a cosmetic issue, they can significantly affect quality of life in later stages. Patients may begin to experience difficulties even with simple daily activities such as walking and standing.

How Can You Tell If You Have Varicose Veins?

Heaviness in the legs, night cramps and visible veins are signs of the onset of varicose veins. Swelling and fatigue that increase at the end of the day are particularly noticeable.

Do Varicose Veins Go Away?

Varicose veins can be controlled or completely treated with appropriate treatment methods. Mild symptoms can be alleviated with lifestyle changes, exercise and compression stockings. However, in more advanced stages, treatment options such as sclerotherapy, laser treatment, radiofrequency applications and surgical methods may be required.

Is Capillary Rupture Varicose Veins?

Yes, capillary rupture is also a type of varicose vein.