Varicose Veins

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins seen just under the skin, usually over the legs. They occur when the valves inside the veins stop working properly.

Normally, these valves allow blood to flow only upwards towards the heart. When they become weak or damaged, blood collects inside the leg veins, causing them to enlarge like a balloon. These enlarged veins are called varicose veins.

The medical term for this condition is Chronic Venous Insufficiency.

How Does Blood Normally Flow in the Legs?

Your heart pumps oxygen-rich blood to the body through arteries. After oxygen is used by the tissues, the “impure” blood returns to the heart through veins.

In the legs, veins have to carry blood upward against gravity. To make this possible, veins contain one-way valves that prevent blood from flowing backward.

When these valves fail:

• Blood flows backward
• Blood collects in the veins
• Veins become stretched and bulged
• Varicose veins develop over time

This is why varicose veins are more common in people who stand or sit for long hours.

What is the Cause of Varicose Veins?

Several factors increase the risk of developing varicose veins:

• Genetics – Family history increases risk
• Pregnancy – Hormonal changes weaken vein walls
• Prolonged Standing – Teachers, shopkeepers, police personnel, bus drivers
• Previous Blood Clots (DVT) – Can damage vein valves and cause secondary varicose veins
• Ageing – Vein walls lose elasticity over time
• Obesity – Increases pressure inside leg veins

Common Symptoms

Varicose veins are not just a cosmetic problem. Common symptoms include:

• Spider veins and large bulging veins
• Ankle pigmentation (darkening of skin)
• Leg swelling
• Severe leg infection (cellulitis)
• Slow-healing ankle wounds (venous ulcers)
• Bleeding from varicose veins

If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to chronic pain, skin changes, infections, and non-healing ulcers.

Diagnosis: How Are Varicose Veins Evaluated?

The most common and reliable test to diagnose varicose veins is a Colour Doppler Ultrasound scan.

This is a safe, painless, non-invasive test that shows:

• Blood flow in your veins
• Whether the valves are working properly
• Presence of any blood clots

In complicated cases, additional tests may be advised:

• CT Venogram
• MR Venogram
• Contrast Venogram

Your vascular specialist will decide which test is needed based on your condition.

Treatment Options Available

The right treatment depends on:

• Your symptoms
• The severity of vein damage
• Your overall health and lifestyle

A vascular surgeon will guide you on the best treatment option for your case.

1. Lifestyle & Compression Therapy

• Wear compression stockings (medical-grade tight socks)
• Avoid standing or sitting for long hours
• Elevate your legs while resting
• Maintain healthy weight and regular walking

These methods relieve symptoms but do not cure varicose veins.

2. Sclerotherapy (Injection Treatment)

A special chemical (sclerosant) is injected into the vein, causing it to collapse and slowly disappear.

• Suitable for small and cosmetic veins
• Done as an outpatient procedure
• Not suitable for all varicose veins
• Multiple sessions may be required

3. Surgical Vein Removal

Also known as vein stripping, this procedure removes the damaged vein under anesthesia.

• Usually requires a short hospital stay
• Highly effective for severe or widespread disease
• Long-term results are good

4. Endovenous Ablation (Laser or Radiofrequency)

A minimally invasive procedure done under local anesthesia.

• A thin catheter is inserted into the vein
• The vein is sealed using laser or RF energy
• Faster recovery than surgery
• Minimal cuts, less pain, early return to work
• Excellent long-term success rates

Which Treatment Works Best?

There is no single treatment that suits everyone:

• Compression stockings – Control symptoms but do not cure the disease
• Sclerotherapy – Good for small veins, higher recurrence for large veins
• Surgery – Durable long-term results
• Laser / RF ablation – Same results as surgery with less pain and faster healing

The best option depends on your vein anatomy and stage of disease, which is why a Doppler scan and vascular specialist consultation are important before deciding treatment.

Expert Varicose Veins Treatment in Bangalore

At Foot & Vein Clinic, Bangalore, we provide:

• Detailed vein evaluation using Doppler scan
• Non-surgical and surgical treatment options
• Modern laser and RF ablation procedures
• Ulcer and wound care for advanced varicose disease
• Long-term follow-up to prevent recurrence

Early treatment prevents complications like ulcers, infections, and bleeding.