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Beyond Cosmetics: Varicose Veins Pose Serious Health Risks
25 Jul
Summary
- Varicose veins affect 25-30% of Indians, according to a gastroenterologist.
- Untreated varicose veins can lead to ulcers, skin darkening, and dangerous blood clots.
- Doppler ultrasound is crucial for diagnosing faulty veins and planning treatment.
Gastroenterologist Dr. Pal Manickam recently highlighted that varicose veins affect a significant portion of the Indian population, estimating 25-30% prevalence. He stressed the importance of not ignoring symptoms such as sudden leg pain and swelling, recommending a Doppler ultrasound for timely diagnosis.
Untreated varicose veins can lead to serious complications, including skin color changes, leg ulcers, and the rare but dangerous migration of blood clots to the heart. Dr. Abhishek Bansal, a Senior Consultant at Aakash Healthcare, concurred that varicose veins are a medical issue, not just cosmetic, requiring attention as symptoms worsen.
Varicose veins develop when leg vein valves weaken, causing blood to pool. While studies suggest they affect about one in four adults, prevalence varies by age, occupation, and gender, being more common in women and older individuals. Early warning signs include leg heaviness, swelling, visible twisted veins, itching, skin color changes, and leg cramps.
A Doppler ultrasound is a key diagnostic tool, particularly when symptoms persist or worsen, to assess vein function and blood flow. Advanced treatments like laser ablation and glue therapy are now effective alternatives to traditional surgery for more advanced cases.
