Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are large veins, usually bluish in color and tend to protrude or bulge. The bulging occurs as a result of incompetent valves inside the veins. Inside each vein are valves that help to compartmentalize the blood in the extremities. Compartmentalizing the blood enables the body to be able to control the flow and as the heart pumps it pushes small amount through each compartment. This function is necessary to avoid the blood rushing to the lower extremities. When the valves become damaged they allow more blood into the next space, causing that area to expand. The expansion increases over time and begins to bulge, thus causing the vein to move closer to the surface. The causes of can be related to a venous disorder, heredity, hormones, trauma or prolonged standing.
Several methods are available to treat varicose veins. Surgical procedures include vein stripping, ligations and phlebectomys. Sclerotherapy has been very effective in treating and reducing the large bulging veins. Some varicose veins can be treated with laser therapy, but this is usually restricted to veins under 3 millimeters in diameter. Consult a qualified physician to determine which treatment is right for your own particular issue. |
