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From Ancient Rome to Modern Times: Why are varicose veins so annoying and ancient?
Varicose veins are a common medical condition that occurs when surface veins enlarge and twist. Although most of the time this is a cosmetic problem, in some cases it can cause symptoms such as fatigue, pain, itching, and nighttime calf cramps. Varicose veins usually occur in the legs, just below the surface of the skin. Complications of these veins may include bleeding, skin ulcers, and superficial thrombophlebitis.
Varicose veins have been described throughout history, and treatments for the disease have been available since ancient Rome.
The specific cause of varicose veins is not clear. Risk factors include obesity, physical inactivity, leg trauma and family history. The incidence of varicose veins is also higher during pregnancy. Varicose veins become more common as we age. Many women are affected by this disease, with the frequency occurring about twice as often as men.
Symptoms of varicose veins
Patients may experience the following symptoms:
- Heaviness and pain in legs
- Spider veins (telangiectasia) appear
- Ankle swelling
- Legs color change (brown or shiny)
- Red, dry and itchy skin
- Muscle cramps
- Bleeding or abnormal healing time in the affected area
Complications of varicose veins
While most varicose veins are benign, in some cases they can lead to more serious complications, such as:
- Pain and tenderness
- Skin ulcers, especially around the ankles
- Thrombus formation, superficial thrombophlebitis
- Severe bleeding, even from minor trauma
Management of varicose veins is crucial because of the impact it can have on quality of life, especially if they are long-standing.
Diagnostic methods of varicose veins
Varicose veins are usually diagnosed by clinical examination and ultrasound. In some cases, a Trendelenburg test may also be performed to determine the location of venous reflux.
Varicose vein treatment options
There are two treatment options for varicose veins: active and conservative.
Active treatment
Including surgery, laser treatment and ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy.
Conservative treatment
Things like wearing supportive socks, elevating your legs to temporarily relieve symptoms, and getting regular exercise. According to UK Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence recommendations, all patients with symptomatic varicose veins should be referred to the vascular surgery service for further treatment.
New treatments such as transcatheter venous thermal ablation, minimally invasive surgery, and medical glue are becoming new options for varicose vein treatment.
Epidemiology of varicose veins
Varicose veins are most common in people over 50 years old and are closely related to genetic factors. The incidence of varicose veins is generally increased in occupations that require standing for long periods of time, such as those of nurses and waiters.
Varicose veins have a long history, and there are even related treatment records as early as ancient Rome. With the development of modern medical technology, the treatment methods for varicose veins have become increasingly diversified. However, will this disturbing disease ever find an effective cure in the future?
