Varicose Vein Treatment
01
What are varicose veins?
Veins are the vessels that carry deoxygenated blood from the feet towards the heart. Within these vessels, one-way valves and the muscles in the legs facilitate the flow of blood towards the heart. Varicose veins refer to the condition where veins become enlarged, twisted, and visible under the skin, often appearing blue or purple. In varicose vein disease, the valves inside the enlarged veins fail to close properly, leading to the accumulation of deoxygenated blood in the legs. Over time, this buildup further stretches the veins, initiating a vicious cycle of vein enlargement. Therefore, if left untreated, varicose vein disease progresses.
02
What are the symptoms of varicose veins?
Due to the enlarged veins, dirty blood unable to reach the heart begins to accumulate in the legs. While this condition can cause serious complaints such as pain, fatigue, burning sensation, cramps, swelling in the ankles, and wounds in some patients, in others, it only leads to cosmetic complaints. Untreated, advancing, and enlarging varicose veins can sometimes clot, leading to vein inflammation characterized by redness and increased warmth. Patients' complaints worsen with prolonged standing and sitting. As varicose veins progress, swelling and edema develop in the legs over time.
03
How are varicose veins diagnosed?
Varicose veins, which occur due to the enlargement of veins, are easily diagnosed as they are visible to the naked eye and larger ones can be felt with the fingers. However, a preliminary diagnosis should always be confirmed with further examination. A color Doppler ultrasound, which allows visualization of the veins, is performed on the patient. If this examination is conducted by cardiovascular and vascular surgeons who will administer varicose vein treatment, a more accurate decision can be made regarding the patient's current condition.
