3. Varicose veins Flashcards
1
Q
How common is it?
A
1 in 3
2
Q
Who does it affect?
A
F>M
Prevalence increases with age
Often develop in pregnancy
3
Q
What causes it?
A
Incompetent superficial veins cause venous hypertension and dilatation of the vein occurs
Caused by primary mechanical factors or secondary obstruction eg DVT, foetus
4
Q
What risk factors are there?
A
Prolonged standing Obesity Pregnancy FH OCP
5
Q
How does it present?
A
Abnormal looking veins, often on calves
Pain, cramps, tingling, heaviness
Restless legs
6
Q
What signs may the patient have on examination?
A
Oedema Eczema Ulcers Haemorrhage Phlebitis Atrophie blanche
7
Q
What other conditions might present similarly?
A
Telangectasias Reticular veins Arterial leg ulcer Diabetic neuropathy DVT
8
Q
What treatments are there?
A
Treat any underlying cause
Modify risk factors
Endovascular treatment
9
Q
What complications are there?
A
Bleeding
Thrombophlebitis
DVT
Ulceration
