Facts and myths about varicose veins

TRUE: Primary varicose veins are caused by the genetically determined less elastic tissue in the walls of the veins. It has been found that in people with varicose veins, the walls of the veins are more susceptible to stretching. However, when varicose veins appear and how severe they will be, also external factors, such as a long standing position (e.g. hairdresser or saleswoman’s work) or difficult outflow from the veins associated with e.g. pregnancy, heavy lifting or habitual constipation.

MYTH: The feeling of heavy legs appearing in the evening after the whole day may be the earliest symptom of obstructed blood drainage from the leg venous system, i.e. venous insufficiency. You should see a doctor as soon as possible to confirm your suspicions and take appropriate prophylaxis to improve venous circulation. It is recommended to increase physical activity, avoid prolonged standing or sit with lowered, stationary legs, counteract constipation, use anti-varicose tights. Sometimes it is helpful to give medications to relieve symptoms during this early stage. However, they do not prevent the further enlargement of varicose veins.

MYTH: Once formed, varicose veins cannot be reduced with anti-varicose tights or leg bandaging. However, these are very effective methods to slow down the process of further expansion of superficial veins and are always recommended, even in the early stages of venous insufficiency. The method of putting them on is very important, i.e. lying down in the morning before getting up and leaving the legs out of bed, when the veins are not yet stretched and the varicose veins are not very visible.

MYTH: Varicose veins, even the most widened ones, do not burst under the influence of carrying heavy objects. However, when carrying loads, they may increase in size. It should also be remembered that the existing varicose veins, due to the disturbed blood flow in the venous system, may be the reason for the formation of varicose ulcers. It is a wound on the skin, most often located on the inner part of the lower leg, which is difficult to heal. In this situation, the elimination of varicose veins is the most effective method of treatment.

TRUTH: However, this does not apply to all women, but only to those predisposed to the formation of varicose veins. Under the influence of hormones, the veins expand more easily during pregnancy, and the volume of blood itself increases, and thus the volume of blood in the veins. In addition, as the pregnancy progresses and the baby grows larger, pressure on the pelvic veins increases, making it difficult for blood to drain from the legs. However, it should be remembered that a lot depends on proper prevention. However, each pregnancy increases the risk of both the appearance of the first varicose veins and the enlargement of the existing ones.

MYTH: If the patient has already been qualified for the surgery of varicose veins, the date of the surgery should not be delayed. Surgical treatment is recommended when the disease is advanced, with massive varicose veins and ulcers of venous origin. These conditions can have a range of complications if not treated properly. There are, of course, new, minimally invasive methods of treatment, but in the case of varicose veins qualified by the surgeon for surgery, they will be ineffective. Conventional surgery still remains the best way to get rid of varicose veins. The operation is performed under general or regional anesthesia and consists in complete or partial removal of the changed vein.

MYTH: Physical activity, including sports, has a beneficial effect on both the prevention of varicose veins and secondary prevention after surgery to remove varicose veins. After a recovery period and all wounds have healed, you can return to sports. It is best to agree this date with the doctor performing the procedure. However, it should be remembered that not all sports are beneficial for people with varicose veins. Sports related to walking, running, cycling, swimming and dancing are recommended. However, disciplines in which the pressure in the veins increases, such as weightlifting, strength sports, and competitive cycling, are contraindicated. It is best to discuss the topic of safe sport after surgery to remove varicose veins with your doctor.