Prolonged standing or sitting due to work or daily activities can lead to poor blood circulation, increasing pressure in the veins. This is often the starting point for varicose veins.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins occur when vein walls or valves become weak or damaged, causing blood to pool in the veins. Normally, the heart pumps oxygen-rich blood through arteries to nourish the body, and used blood returns to the heart via the veins for reoxygenation. If certain veins lack strength, they fail to return blood efficiently, leading to varicose veins.
Types of Varicose Veins in the Legs
- Varicose veins – Enlarged, twisted veins with greenish or purplish color, caused by weakened vein walls
- Spider veins – Small, superficial, web-like red or purple veins, resembling spider webs
Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Varicose veins may appear as red, purple, or green bulging lines, often seen around the calves, behind the knees, or thighs. Some people may experience:
- Leg pain or heaviness, especially after standing for long periods
- Relief when lying down and elevating the legs
- Others may show no symptoms at all, but the condition can worsen over time
Common Causes of Varicose Veins
- Prolonged standing or walking (e.g., sales staff, ticket collectors)
- Genetics – If parents have varicose veins, their children are more likely to have them
- Aging – As people age, vein walls and valves lose elasticity and strength
- Hormones – Women are more prone due to the effects of female hormones
- Being overweight – Excess weight puts pressure on veins, leading to blood pooling in the legs
- Sitting habits – Such as crossing legs, which restrict blood flow
- Wearing high heels – May impair proper blood circulation
Management and Treatment Options
Doctors tailor treatment based on individual conditions. There are two main approaches:
- Non-surgical, conservative care:
- Lifestyle changes and posture adjustment
- Wearing medical-grade compression stockings
- Topical medications
- Injection therapy (sclerotherapy)
- Lifestyle changes and posture adjustment
- Surgical intervention, especially if the veins are severely blocked or there are complications that may affect other organs.
Why Treatment is Necessary
Many people ignore varicose veins, thinking they’re just cosmetic. But untreated varicose veins can lead to:
- Severe pain
- Inability to stand or walk
- In some cases, vein rupture
Treatment options vary based on vein size and may include:
- Compression therapy
- Sclerotherapy (chemical injection)
- Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA)
- Laser treatment
- Surgery
RFA: A Modern Solution for Varicose Veins
Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) is a modern, minimally invasive treatment:
- Small incisions, almost no visible wounds
- Minimal bleeding, no need for general anesthesia
- Some patients may not require hospitalization and can return home the same day
- No significant disruption to daily life
RFA works by inserting a small fiber-optic wire through a needle into the affected vein. Radiofrequency energy generates heat, which causes the collagen in the vein walls to shrink and collapse the faulty vein.
Achieving the Best Outcomes
After RFA, veins typically shrink by 50% initially, and continue to reduce 90–100% within 6–8 weeks. Studies show a 5–10% recurrence rate (usually minor spider veins that can be treated with injections).
Post-treatment care includes:
- Wearing compression stockings
- Avoiding heavy lifting and prolonged standing for at least 7 days
- Daily walking to promote medication dispersion and improve circulation
- Follow-up visits with the doctor to track progress
Post-Treatment Guidelines
- Avoid heavy lifting or standing for long periods for 3–7 days
- Wear elastic bandages or support garments:
- For small spider veins: 1–3 days
- For medium varicose veins (pen-sized): at least 7 days
- For small spider veins: 1–3 days
- Daily walking exercise is recommended for better treatment results
- See your doctor within 2–4 weeks to monitor recovery
Varicose vein treatment doesn’t have to be scary. With the right care and technology like RFA, patients can regain confidence and quality of life.
