Vein Vein Situation

It might not be life threatening but varicose veins calls for immediate attention.

- Dr Rajan Modi

Before we talk about the problem, let’s get to know our veins better. Veins return blood to the heart from various parts of the body.

Legs, specifically, have to overcome gravity in order to perform this function and receive help from muscles of the calf. There are valves that prevent back-flow of blood. Sometimes, due to stretching of veins near the skin surface, the valves do not close properly leading to bidirectional blood flow (known as venous reflux). This reflux may result in varicose veins, which are tortuous, widened, bulging veins in the subcutaneous tissues.

Facing facts

Prevalence of varicose veins is approximately twice as high in women when compared to men. The reason for this could be attributed to more frequent hormonal changes in women through puberty, use of birth-control pills, pregnancy and menopause.

Symptoms uncovered

Varicose veins are usually harmless, but are often a common cause of cosmetic concern in patients. Few patients may experience heaviness and ache in legs. Swelling and pain may occur after prolonged periods of standing. In advanced cases, brown spots/patches may appear on the skin that ultimately turn reddish/ bluish due to altered blood flow. Itching and scaling of skin occurs in tender areas.

Statistical find