Often dismissed as merely a cosmetic nuisance, Varicose veins, the enlarged and twisted veins typically found in the legs, can pose significant health risks and should not be underestimated, health experts have warned. For, individuals with varicose veins face up to a five-fold increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially life-threatening condition.
Varicose veins are also linked to peripheral arterial disease and other vascular disorders, caution health experts. In a study published online in Cureous, Chukwuyem Ekhator, Neuro-Oncology from New York Institute of Technology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Old Westbury, USA said while some individuals remain asymptomatic, others experience discomfort such as pain, itching, and throbbing.
“If left untreated, chronic venous insufficiency can progress to more severe stages, leading to complications like edema, skin changes, ulcers, and bleeding.
Recent advancements in treatment have enhanced safety, effectiveness, and long-term success, said co-author Sophia B Bellegarde, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, American University of Antigua, Coolidge, ATG.
Dr. Vimal Bhandari, former head of the National Organ Transplant and Tissue Organisation (NOTTO) and Professor of Surgery at ESI Hospital and Medical College, explained,
“The condition arises when the valves within veins fail to function properly, leading to blood pooling and causing the veins to become twisted and enlarged. This malfunction is not only a cosmetic issue but a precursor to serious complications if left untreated.”
He advised seeking medical attention if varicose veins cause discomfort, swelling, or affect daily activities. Symptoms such as persistent pain, swelling, skin ulcers, sudden vein enlargement, or changes in skin color or texture should prompt a consultation with a healthcare provider. Early intervention can prevent complications such as venous ulcers, redness, eczema, and, in severe cases, ruptured veins.
Diagnosis of varicose veins and related complications often involves a Doppler ultrasound, which helps detect issues like DVT. Treatments include modern techniques such as radiofrequency ablation, which burns the affected veins to close them off and improve blood flow, said Dr Achintya Sharma, Senior Consultant and Incharge of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery at Max Hospital and Tirath Ram Shah Hospital. He highlighted the prevalence of varicose veins, noting they affect approximately 40-60% of women, often due to factors like pregnancy and weight gain, and 15-30% of men.
“Modern methods focus on minimally invasive procedures rather than traditional invasive surgeries. Options include compression therapy, sclerotherapy, and laser therapy. Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution into the vein to cause it to collapse and fade over time.” Dr Aakash Patel from Shalby Hospitals, Ahmedabad talked about the Glue therapy, a minimally invasive and highly effective solution for treating varicose veins.
He said that the therapy allows patients to return to their daily activities with minimal downtime.
It has been effectively used in the United States and Europe for the last 5 years.
