Varicose Veins that make your legs look unattractive and affect your confidence may seem like a minor issue… but they bother many people, especially women, who are 4-5 times more likely to develop this condition than men. So what exactly causes varicose veins? What warning signs should not be ignored and require prompt treatment? Let’s dive deep into the topic of “Varicose Veins” with Dr. Supachai Chanwitan, a general surgery specialist at Phyathai 2 Hospital!
First, what exactly are “Varicose Veins”?
We may have often heard about the problem of “Varicose Veins”, but many people might not know that the bulging veins we see under the skin are actually “veins” that have become dilated and twisted like worms on the legs. This is considered one of the chronic venous disorders (CHRONIC VENOUS).
Why do “Varicose Veins” occur?
Normally, our veins function to carry blood back to the heart, with venous valves controlling the flow to ensure blood moves from the legs to the heart properly. However, in some people, these venous valves malfunction, causing blood to flow backward, increasing pressure in the leg veins (INCOMPETENT VEIN), which leads to the veins becoming swollen and varicose.
Did you know? These factors increase the risk of developing varicose veins
- Sitting or standing continuously for long periods
- Frequently crossing legs while sitting
- Genetics
- Excess body weight
- Progesterone hormone in the body (female only)
Clearing up the mystery! Why are women more likely to have varicose veins than men?
Statistics show that women are 4-5 times more likely to develop varicose veins than men. This is because the hormone progesterone stimulates the uterine lining to accumulate nutrients for the embryo, produces thick mucus at the cervix, and reduces uterine contractions. This hormone plays a key role in the dilation of vein walls, causing increased blood volume circulation in the lower body compared to men. Especially pregnant women or those taking certain birth control pills have a higher risk of developing varicose veins.
Where are varicose veins commonly found?
The most common locations for varicose veins are the back of the thighs and calves. Varicose veins can also occur in other areas such as the groin, or in men, they may be found in the scrotum, mostly on the left side because the left vein is more prone to twisting and blockage than the right. Varicose veins in the scrotum are not dangerous but may cause infertility. They can be detected by feeling for soft, slightly bulging veins.
When you see these signs… it’s time to see a doctor
Most people with varicose veins tend to ignore them, thinking they are not serious. However, leaving chronic varicose veins untreated for a long time can lead to complications. Here are warning signs indicating it’s time to see a doctor:
- Pain, swelling, fatigue, or heaviness in the legs, especially in the evening, sometimes accompanied by itching, burning, or stinging pain around the varicose veins
- The skin around the varicose veins darkens due to inflammation caused by vein abnormalities
- Bleeding – some people scratch and cause wounds, leading to ruptured veins with minor bleeding that stops after applying pressure with tissue
If you have these warning signs, do not ignore them, as advanced varicose veins can increase the risk of infection around wounds. Early medical consultation not only resolves the bothersome problem but treatment options may be simple and not necessarily require surgery!
Dr. Supachai Chanwitan
General Surgery Specialist
Surgical Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
