varicose veins Flashcards
what are varicose veins
twisted, enlarged veins
any superficial vein can become varicosed
what are the types of varicose veins
varicose veins (aching pain, discomfort)
spider veins (milder variation)
what causes varicose veins
weak or damaged valves (blood flows backwards and pools in the veins causing them to stretch and twist)
what are mild symptoms of varicose veins
visible swollen veins
spider veins (small veins you can see on surface skin)
leg cramps
mild swelling of feet/ankles
more severe symptoms of varicose veins
leg swelling
leg pain after sitting or standing for prolonged time
skin sores (ulcers) that don’t heal easily
dry, irritated, scaly skin
how do varicose veins get diagnosed
- physical exam (looking at legs for swelling while standing )
- doppler ultrasound (uses sound waves to look at blood flow through the valves of the veins)
what are treatments for varicose veins
self care (exercise, raise legs)
compression stockings (squeezes legs for more efficient blood flow)
surgeries/medical procedures
what are medical procedures for varicose veins
sclerotherapy (injection of a solution that closes the veins)
laser treatment (strong bursts of light that make them fade and dissapear)
phlebectomy: removing the damaged vein
incidence of varicose veins
3.3-5.4 per 1 000 people
how to prevent varicose veins
improving blood flow and muscle tone can reduce risk.
avoid high heels
chang sitting and standing position regularly
high fiber-low salt diet
exercise
what’s the prognosis for varicose veins
they tend to get worse over time, prevent more serious problems through exercise, etc
what are complications from varicose veins
ulcers: usually near ankles
blood clots
bleeding: veins close to skin can burst
