Varicose veins are a medical condition in which the veins close to the skin's surface become enlarged and twisted, mainly occurring in the legs. These veins usually do not cause many symptoms, but some people may experience pain or fatigue in the area. Complications of varicose veins include bleeding and superficial thrombophlebitis. Varicoceles occur in the scrotum, while hemorrhoids develop around the anus. The condition negatively affects one's quality of life due to various physical, social, and psychological effects. The cause of varicose veins is not specific, but obesity, lack of exercise, leg trauma, and family history increase the risk of developing them. They are also more common during pregnancy and may result from chronic venous insufficiency. Weak or damaged valves in the veins are underlying causes. Varicose veins are diagnosed by examination, including ultrasound. Treatment includes lifestyle changes and medical procedures such as wearing compression stockings, exercising, elevating the legs, weight loss, sclerotherapy, laser surgery, and vein stripping. Reoccurrence is common after treatment. Varicose veins are prevalent, affecting around 30% of people during their lifetime. Women develop varicose veins twice as often as men. The condition has been described throughout history and has been treated with surgery since at least A.D. 400.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged and twisted veins, usually found in the legs, caused by damaged or weakened valves in the veins that hinder proper blood flow. This can cause blood to pool in the veins, resulting in their bulging appearance. Varicose veins can cause discomfort, pain, and swelling, and may increase the risk of blood clots and skin ulcers. They are common in people who stand or sit for prolonged periods, those who are overweight or pregnant, and those with a family history of varicose veins. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, compression stockings, and in some cases, surgery.

What causes varicose veins?

Here are some common causes of varicose veins:

• Age: As we age, the valves in our veins may weaken and become less effective in regulating blood flow, leading to varicose veins.

• Genetics: If your family members have varicose veins, you may be more likely to develop them.

• Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop varicose veins, possibly due to hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause.

• Obesity: Extra weight can put pressure on the veins in your legs and lead to varicose veins.

• Sedentary lifestyle: Sitting or standing for long periods can cause blood to pool in your legs, increasing the risk of varicose veins.

• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and the added pressure on the veins from the growing uterus can increase the risk of varicose veins during pregnancy.

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in the deep veins can damage valves and lead to varicose veins.

• Injury or trauma to the legs: Damage to the veins in the legs can increase the risk of varicose veins.

What is EVLT procedure for varicose veins?

EVLT stands for Endovenous Laser Treatment, which is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins. Here's how it works:

• The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis, with the patient receiving local anesthesia to numb the area where the treatment will be done.

• A small incision is made in the skin, and a thin laser fiber is inserted into the affected vein.

• The laser delivers energy to the vein wall, causing it to heat up and close off the vein. This redirects blood flow to healthier veins, reducing the appearance of varicose veins and improving circulation.

• The laser delivers energy to the vein wall, causing it to heat up and close off the vein. This redirects blood flow to healthier veins, reducing the appearance of varicose veins and improving circulation.

• EVLT is generally considered safe and effective, with a high success rate and low risk of complications.

Is EVLT a painful procedure?

In no way, at all. Patients often experience minimal pain during an EVLT session. When the surgery is over and the anesthetic's effects have worn off, there is no pain.

What are the symptoms of varicose veins?

Here are five common symptoms of varicose veins:

• Bulging, twisted veins: Varicose veins are usually large and twisted, and may be visible through the skin. They often appear blue or purple in color.

• Aching or pain: Varicose veins can cause discomfort or pain, especially after standing or sitting for long periods.

• Swelling: The affected area may be swollen, especially around the ankles and feet.

• Skin changes: The skin around the affected area may become discolored or thickened, and may itch or feel dry.

• Muscle cramps: Varicose veins can cause muscle cramps or aching, especially at night.

Advantages of EVLT surgery over Varicose Veins Open Surgery:

Advantages of EVLT Surgery
	Open Surgery	EVLT Surgery
Type of Procedure	Invasive	Minimally Invasive
Anesthesia	General	Local
Incisions	Multiple, large	One or two small
Recovery Time	Weeks	Days
Scarring	Significant	Minimal
Pain	Moderate to Severe	Mild
Effectiveness	Low	High
Complications	Moderate to High	Low

Note: The advantages listed above are generalizations and may vary based on the specific surgical procedure and patient characteristics.

Risks of varicose vein, if left untreated?

Here are some potential complications that can arise if varicose veins are left untreated:

• Blood clots: Varicose veins can increase the risk of blood clots, which can be dangerous and potentially life threatening if they travel to the lungs or other organs.

• Skin ulcers: Over time, the skin around varicose veins can become damaged and lead to painful, slow-healing ulcers.

• Bleeding: Varicose veins can rupture and bleed, which can be difficult to stop and may require medical attention.

• Superficial thrombophlebitis: This is a condition where the vein becomes inflamed and painful, and can cause redness and swelling.

• Chronic venous insufficiency: This is a condition where the veins become damaged and blood flow is disrupted, leading to swelling, skin changes, and other complications.

how to prevent varicose veins from reoccurring?

Here are five ways to prevent varicose veins from reoccurring:

• Wear compression stockings: Compression stockings help improve blood flow and reduce the risk of varicose veins. Wearing them regularly can also help prevent varicose veins from coming back.

• Exercise regularly: Regular exercise, especially activities that work your legs, can help improve circulation and reduce the risk of varicose veins.

• Exercise regularly: Regular exercise, especially activities that work your legs, can help improve circulation and reduce the risk of varicose veins.

• Avoid standing or sitting for long periods: Standing or sitting for long periods can put pressure on your veins and increase the risk of varicose veins. Take breaks to move around and stretch your legs.

• Treat underlying conditions: Conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol can increase the risk of varicose veins. Treating these conditions can help reduce the risk of varicose veins from coming back.