HEALTH + WELLNESS
HEALTH & WELLNESS Q & A
YOUR VARICOSE VEINS QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY MR NOEL WILSON , VASCULAR AND ENDOVASCULAR SURGEON , KIMS HOSPITAL , MAIDSTONE
What are varicose veins ? Varicose veins are veins that have become enlarged and swollen . The veins are usually visible just underneath the skin often looking blue or purple in colour and can appear lumpy , bulging or twisted . Varicose veins are most commonly seen on legs .
What causes varicose veins ? A healthy vein allows blood to flow forward smoothly towards the heart . Small valves on the inside of the vein walls prevent blood from flowing backwards . When these valves become faulty or stop working altogether , blood can flow backwards , collecting in the vein and causing it to expand . It is these expanded veins that create what we know as varicose veins .
Varicose veins may be hereditary ; you will often see them running in families . Women are more susceptible to varicose veins than men with hormonal factors playing a big part including puberty , pregnancy , menopause , the use of birth control pills , and HRT .
What are the main symptoms ? The main symptoms for varicose veins are visual – they will look lumpy or twisted and bulge from underneath the skin . The area of skin immediately over the vein can be dry and itchy too . However , they can also cause an aching , heavy feeling or a burning or throbbing sensation in your legs . They can cause muscle cramps and swollen feet and ankles . Complications of varicose veins , inflammation ( phlebitis ) and skin problems are relatively uncommon .
What treatments are available ? There are a number of treatments available to help remove varicose veins . A consultant vascular surgeon will be able to discuss these with you in detail . They will take in to consideration all your needs and help you choose the most suitable option .
How long do procedures take and how quickly will I recover ? All procedures will either be done as a day case stay or outpatient treatment meaning that you can go home the same day you have your treatment . Procedures carried out under general anaesthetic allow extensive veins and both legs to have completed treatment in one sitting and you should also be able to go home the same day .
All procedures will cause some bruising and / or discomfort immediately after treatment however , patients usually see results within a few days and will have completely recovered within a few weeks .
If I wanted to have treatment , can I get it on the NHS ? Most varicose veins are not eligible for treatments on the NHS . Only a small number of patients with established complications are likely to be eligible .
Most people seek treatment for varicose veins because of the way they look and symptoms of aching or discomfort . As this is considered cosmetic in nature , any treatment for the removal of varicose veins would need to be paid for privately . KIMS Hospital offer a range of treatments – it is always best to see a consultant vascular surgeon to discuss your needs and the treatment options that may be most suitable for you .
Can I reduce the chances of getting a varicose vein ? There is little you can do to completely prevent getting varicose veins but there are ways to ease symptoms of existing ones such as :
• Avoid standing or sitting still for long periods of time
• Get up and move around by taking regular breaks throughout the day
• Exercise regularly as this can help to improve circulation
KIMS Hospital Newnham Court Way Weavering Maidstone ME14 5FT 01622 237727 www . kims . org . uk
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