13. Varicose veins
Varicose veins, also known as varicoses or varicosities, develop when your veins expand, widen, and get overfilled with blood. Varicose veins are swollen and elevated, with a bluish-purple or red appearance. They are frequently excruciating. The illness is extremely frequent, particularly in women. Varicose veins affect approximately 25% of all individuals. Varicose veins most commonly develop in the lower legs. Varicose veins develop when veins do not function properly. One-way valves in veins prohibit blood from going backward. When these valves fail, blood begins to pool in the veins instead of flowing toward the heart. The veins widen as a result. Varicose veins are most commonly found in the legs. The veins in this area are the furthest away from your heart, and gravity makes it difficult for blood to move upward. The basic symptoms of varicose veins are prominent, distorted veins on your legs. Pain, swelling, heaviness, and achiness may also occur over or around the enlarged veins. Swelling and discolouration can occur in some circumstances. In severe situations, the veins may bleed profusely and ulcers may emerge. To diagnose varicose veins, your doctor would most likely inspect your legs and visible veins while you are sitting or standing. They may inquire about any discomfort or symptoms you are experiencing. Your doctor may also order an ultrasound to examine your blood flow. This noninvasive test employs high-frequency sound waves. It enables your doctor to view how blood flows through your veins. A venogram may be performed depending on the location to better analyze your veins. Your doctor will inject a special dye into your legs and take X-rays of the area during this exam. The dye appears on X-rays, providing your doctor with a clearer picture of how your blood is flowing. Your doctor may recommend that you wear compression socks or stockings. These apply enough pressure to your legs to allow blood to flow more freely to your heart. They also help to reduce edema. The level of compression varies, but most compression stockings may be found in drugstores or medical supply stores. Varicose veins typically worsen with time. This is true even if you adjust your lifestyle to control them and manage your discomfort. While they are unattractive, they rarely cause long-term medical issues. Varicose veins can cause ulcers or sores on your legs, blood clots, and persistent inflammation in some situations. Your veins may rupture if you have a severe disease. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should consult your doctor. They may then advise a more active course of action, such as surgery or other procedures.
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