Healthy Legs, Happy Life: Understanding and Treating Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that usually appear on the legs and feet. They develop when the valves in the veins fail to function properly, causing blood to pool instead of flowing efficiently back to the heart. This results in bulging, swollen veins that can be blue, purple, or dark red.

While varicose veins are common and often harmless, they can sometimes lead to discomfort and other complications. At Northern Heart Hospital, our team of vascular specialists can assess the severity of your condition and provide tailored treatment plans to ensure optimal vein health.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Several factors contribute to the development of varicose veins, including:

• Genetics: If your parents or grandparents had varicose veins, you are more likely to develop them. Genetics play a significant role in vein health, as inherited weaknesses in vein walls or valves can make some people more susceptible to the condition.
• Age: As we grow older, the veins lose elasticity, and the valves may weaken, making it harder for blood to circulate properly. The natural ageing process causes wear and tear on vein valves, which can lead to blood pooling and vein enlargement over time.
• Gender: Women are more prone to varicose veins due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, or while taking birth control pills. Female hormones tend to relax vein walls, making them more likely to stretch and develop varicosities.
• Prolonged standing or sitting: Jobs that require long periods of standing (such as nurses, teachers, and retail workers) or sitting (such as office workers and drivers) can increase pressure on the veins, leading to poor circulation. Lack of movement causes blood to stagnate, which may contribute to vein enlargement.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts additional strain on the veins, making them more likely to become varicose. Extra body weight increases pressure on the lower limbs, affecting proper blood flow and making it harder for veins to return blood to the heart efficiently.
• Pregnancy: Increased blood volume and hormonal changes during pregnancy can enlarge veins, though they often improve after childbirth. The growing uterus also puts pressure on veins in the pelvis, which can contribute to the formation of varicose veins.
• Lack of exercise: Physical activity helps maintain good circulation. A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to vein problems, as movement is essential for helping the muscles pump blood back towards the heart.

Northern Heart Hospital offers personalised risk assessments to determine the likelihood of developing varicose veins and provide preventive strategies to help maintain healthy circulation.

Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins present with a range of symptoms, including:

• Visible, twisted veins: The most noticeable symptom is the appearance of bulging veins, usually on the legs. These veins may be dark blue, purple, or red, and they can appear twisted or rope-like beneath the skin.
• Aching or heaviness: Many people experience a dull ache or heaviness in their legs, especially after standing for long periods. This discomfort is often worse at the end of the day or after extended periods of inactivity.
• Swelling in the legs and ankles: Poor circulation can cause fluid build-up, leading to swelling, particularly around the ankles and lower legs. This can make the legs feel tight and uncomfortable.
• Itching or burning sensation: Some people feel an itchy or burning sensation around the affected veins. This can sometimes be mistaken for dry skin or other skin conditions.
• Cramping or restless legs: Leg cramps, especially at night, can be a symptom of varicose veins. Some people also experience an uncontrollable urge to move their legs, particularly in the evening.
• Skin changes: In severe cases, the skin around varicose veins may become discoloured, dry, or develop ulcers. Chronic venous insufficiency can cause skin to darken, thicken, or develop sores that are slow to heal.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, Northern Heart Hospital’s specialists can perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the severity and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Diagnosing Varicose Veins

At Northern Heart Hospital, we use advanced diagnostic tools to assess varicose veins effectively. Diagnosis typically includes:

• Physical examination: A vascular specialist will examine your legs, discuss your symptoms, and evaluate risk factors.
• Ultrasound imaging: A non-invasive ultrasound scan helps assess blood flow and detect underlying venous insufficiency or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Treatment Options for Varicose Veins

We offer a variety of treatments at Northern Heart Hospital, ranging from conservative management to advanced procedures, depending on the severity of your condition.

Lifestyle Changes

For mild cases, lifestyle changes can help manage varicose veins and prevent them from worsening:

• Exercise regularly: Walking, cycling, and swimming promote good circulation and help maintain strong vein health.
• Elevate your legs: Keeping your legs elevated when resting can help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
• Avoid prolonged sitting or standing: If your job requires long hours of standing, take breaks to move around and stretch your legs.
• Wear compression stockings: These stockings provide gentle pressure to support circulation and reduce discomfort.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Losing excess weight can reduce pressure on the veins, improving blood flow.

Medical Treatments Available at Northern Heart Hospital

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, we offer state-of-the-art treatments, including:

• Sclerotherapy: A minimally invasive procedure where a special solution is injected into the vein, causing it to collapse and fade over time.
• Endovenous ablation therapy: A catheter-based treatment that uses heat or radiofrequency energy to seal off affected veins.
• Venaseal ablation: Painless glue injection to close faulty veins.
• Microphlebectomy: A procedure where small varicose veins are removed through tiny incisions, leaving minimal scarring.
• Surgical procedures: In severe cases, surgical options like vein stripping or ligation may be recommended to remove problematic veins.

Our expert vascular team at Northern Heart Hospital ensures that every patient receives the most effective and minimally invasive treatment for their condition.

Preventing Varicose Veins

While it may not be possible to completely prevent varicose veins, certain steps can lower the risk:

• Stay active: Regular movement keeps blood flowing properly and strengthens vein walls.
• Avoid tight clothing: Restrictive clothing can hinder circulation and contribute to vein problems.
• Limit high heels: Flat shoes promote better blood flow in the legs.
• Hydrate and eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in fibre and low in salt helps prevent swelling and promotes vascular health.

Why Choose Northern Heart Hospital for Varicose Vein Treatment?

At Northern Heart Hospital, our highly trained vascular specialists provide comprehensive care for varicose veins. We combine the latest medical advancements with a personalised approach, ensuring that each patient receives the most effective treatment. Whether you need conservative management or a minimally invasive procedure, our team is here to help you achieve healthier veins and improved well-being.

If you are concerned about varicose veins or experiencing discomfort, schedule a consultation at Northern Heart Hospital today and take the first step towards better vein health!