Varicose veins |
Varicose veins are the visible, sometimes prominent and wiggly veins under the skin that appear when standing. They can vary greatly in appearance, and can have a wide set of symptoms. They are frequently without symptoms apart from their unsightly appearance. However they can cause pain, discomfort, and swelling and are believed to cause skin breakdown and long-standing ulceration when they are at their worst.
Varicose Veins are very common. About one in a hundred adults will develop new varicose veins each year. This increases with age. Large studies in Edinburgh have shown that approximately 1/3rd of the population there have varicose veins, about 1 in 10 have significant symptoms from their vein disease. Varicose veins occur as often in men as in women. Varicose Veins are seen to run in families but there is no identifiable genetic link. Varicose Veins are difficult to avoid but certain measures may help to reduce the chances of their development, and can also help with the more minor symptoms without recourse to any type of active treatment. Standing still for long periods should be avoided. Walking is much better for the veins and helps the blood return to the heart from the legs. In occupations that require extended periods of standing then a few steps should be taken at regular short intervals to help circulation. Guardsmen are known to flex their calf muscles when standing sentry for hours on end to help push blood back up the legs. Wearing support stockings may also reduce the likelihood of varicose veins. No creams or drugs are available to prevent varicose veins but simple emollient can improve the condition of the skin and protect it from ulceration. The earlier varicose veins and thread veins are treated the better the long term and cosmetic outcome. |