25 Questions and Answers
Varicose veins are a circulatory problem that develops when veins enlarge and become twisted, and the valves inside them fail to function properly. Instead of flowing towards the heart, blood pools in the lower extremities. They are most common in the legs because gravitational forces are greatest there. Over time, swelling, pain, and a visible purple-blue vein pattern appear on the skin.
People who stand for long periods — such as teachers, hairdressers, and surgeons — are more frequently affected. Genetic predisposition, pregnancy, excess weight, a sedentary lifestyle, ageing, and hormonal changes also increase the risk.
No. Although they are cosmetically bothersome, the underlying venous insufficiency can cause serious health problems. If left untreated, pain, heaviness in the legs, itching, skin discolouration, and even ulcers can develop.
The most common symptoms are a feeling of fullness in the legs, burning, night cramps, itching, visible veins, and swelling after prolonged standing. Complaints typically worsen in the evening. In advanced stages, skin discolouration and ulcers may occur.
The valves in veins prevent blood from flowing backwards. When these valves are damaged, blood pools below and the vein enlarges. Prolonged standing, pregnancy, genetic predisposition, and excess weight accelerate this process.
During pregnancy, hormones relax the vessel walls, the growing uterus puts pressure on the pelvic veins, and blood volume increases. These changes cause the leg veins in particular to dilate and valves to become damaged.
Yes. When worn regularly and correctly, they support circulation and reduce swelling and pain. However, they do not eliminate the disease — they only slow its progression. The correct pressure level should be determined by a doctor.
In advanced cases, skin discolouration, hardening, ulcers, and clots (thrombophlebitis) can develop. These complications make treatment more difficult. Early intervention prevents permanent damage.
Yes, genetic predisposition is a strong factor. The risk doubles in people with a family history of varicose veins. However, this is not inevitable — risk can be reduced through exercise, weight control, and regular rest.
Yes, they often begin with fine red-purple spider vein clusters. These can gradually enlarge and become prominent blue veins. Taking action at this early stage makes treatment easier.
Treatment varies according to the size of the veins: interventional methods such as laser, radiofrequency, and foam sclerotherapy, or conventional surgery can be applied. Modern techniques are generally stitch-free and have a short recovery period.
Yes, it provides a permanent solution in suitable patients. The vein is closed by heating it from the inside with a laser. However, controlling risk factors is essential to prevent new varicose veins from forming.
A medicated foam is injected into the vein, causing the vessel wall to shrink and close. The procedure is quick and generally requires no anaesthesia. Compression stockings are worn afterwards.
Surgery is preferred in cases of large vein blockage, clot formation, or extensive and painful varicose veins. The vein is usually removed or closed. Hospital stay is short and outcomes are favourable.
With modern techniques, pain is minimal. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia through needle-sized incisions. Most patients can walk on the same day and return to their daily routines.
Yes. Closed veins do not reopen, but new veins may enlarge over time. It is therefore important to avoid risk factors such as smoking, prolonged standing, and excess weight.
In long-untreated varicose veins, circulation deteriorates and open sores develop on the skin. These wounds are painful and difficult to heal. Continuous dressing and compression therapy are required.
Yes. They are more common in women due to hormonal factors, but they are also widespread in men who do heavy physical work or stand for long periods. In men, the condition is usually noticed later.
Exercise alone cannot treat varicose veins, but it reduces symptoms. Walking, swimming, and cycling improve venous pumping. Prolonged sitting and inactivity should be avoided.
Yes. A high-fibre diet, adequate fluid intake, and reduced salt consumption are important. Constipation increases venous pressure, so easy-to-digest nutrition is recommended.
Move frequently, do calf-raise exercises, elevate the legs whenever possible, and wear compression stockings if feasible.
They can appear from the twenties onwards, but become more pronounced after the age of 40 and following pregnancy. If noticed at a young age, progression can be halted.
Prolonged sitting, pressure changes, and limited movement can worsen varicose vein complaints. During flights, getting up to walk frequently, drinking plenty of water, and wearing compression stockings are all beneficial.
After most modern techniques, patients can walk on the same day. Return to work usually occurs within 2–3 days. Wearing compression stockings for a few weeks is recommended.
If there is a genetic predisposition, complete prevention is difficult, but the risk can be reduced. Regular walking, weight control, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking and inactivity are the most effective measures.
