Varicose veins: why they occur and what to do about them

Varicose veins, or varicose veins, are among the most common vascular problems in adults. The development of varicose veins cannot always be prevented, but certain dietary measures can alleviate the problems and promote proper venous return. If varicose veins have already developed, it is important to monitor their development and consult a doctor if problems arise.

Veins carry blood back to the heart against the force of gravity. They are helped by venous valves – one-way “check valves” that open towards the heart and prevent blood from flowing backwards. The veins of the lower extremities are the most stressed because the blood in them has to overcome gravity.

If the vein wall weakens for any reason or the valves stop working properly, some of the blood backs up and accumulates in the vein. This creates increased pressure, which can lead to further dilation of the veins and a gradual worsening of the problem. The visible result of this process is varicose veins.

How do varicose veins manifest themselves?

Typical symptoms include:

• a feeling of heavy, tired or tense legs, which is more pronounced in the evening and after standing for a long time,
• swelling, especially around the ankles,
• tingling or discomfort in the legs,
• night cramps in the calves,
• visibly enlarged veins under the skin,
• in a more advanced stage, changes in the color and structure of the skin around the ankles or the formation of a leg ulcer, i.e. poorly healing wounds requiring professional care.

What increases the risk of developing varicose veins?

Heredity and older age play a significant role. Pregnancy, being overweight, prolonged standing or sitting, lack of exercise and certain hormonal influences further increase the risk. A history of deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities may also be a risk factor.

What can we do ourselves?

The basis is regular exercise (especially walking, cycling or swimming). The movement of the calf muscles helps the blood return from the lower extremities towards the heart.

When sitting or standing for long periods of time, it is a good idea to change positions regularly, take short walks, and exercise your ankles and calves. It can help to elevate your feet when resting.

It is also important to maintain an appropriate body weight and take care of the skin of the lower extremities, especially if it is dry or changes appear on it.

One option for relieving the discomfort associated with varicose veins is compression stockings and knee-high socks. Using graduated pressure, they promote the return of blood from the lower extremities and can relieve swelling, a feeling of heavy and tired legs, or other discomforts associated with venous insufficiency.

Compression garments come in different sizes, lengths and levels of compression. It is therefore important to choose the right size and type of garment. Compression may not be appropriate for some medical conditions (e.g. significant arterial disease in the lower extremities). It is a good idea to consult your doctor or pharmacist when making your choice.

Compression socks and stockings are usually put on in the morning, when the swelling of the lower extremities is the least, and worn during the day as recommended by a specialist.

These compression medical devices are also available in the Medical Supplies Department of the VFN. MEDICAL NEEDS – Pharmacy of the General University Hospital in Prague

What can a pharmacist offer?

A pharmacist can advise on choosing a suitable compression garment or a medication designed to alleviate some of the problems associated with venous insufficiency.

So-called venopharmaceuticals are medicinal products used, for example, to relieve the feeling of heavy and tired legs or swelling. Registered medicinal products and dietary supplements are available on the market. Dietary supplements do not require proof of therapeutic efficacy before being placed on the market in the same way as medicinal products. It is therefore advisable to consult a pharmacist when choosing a specific product.

When to see a doctor?

If varicose veins cause pain, significant swelling, or the condition gradually worsens, it is advisable to consult a doctor. A professional examination is also important if there are changes in the color or texture of the skin or if a wound in the lower leg area that does not heal well develops.

If varicose veins cause significant problems, your doctor may recommend further treatment. Depending on the extent of the problem, sclerotherapy, some intravenous procedures, or surgery may be considered. The appropriate procedure is always selected individually based on the findings and the patient's health condition.

Sudden unilateral swelling of the leg, especially if associated with pain, redness, or increased temperature of the limb, requires urgent medical evaluation. Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain should prompt emergency medical attention.

Varicose veins are a common problem that you don't just have to "suffer from." Regular exercise, appropriate compression, lower limb care, and timely consultation with a specialist can help alleviate the problems and prevent some complications.