Varicose veins are a common vascular condition, recognized by their swollen and twisted appearance, primarily in the legs. They affect a significant portion of the adult population, with estimates suggesting up to 35% of people in the U.S. experience them, becoming more prevalent with age. They often present as blue or purple bulges just beneath the skin’s surface.
Understanding Varicose Veins
Varicose veins develop from increased pressure within veins, typically those near the skin’s surface in the legs. This condition arises from weakened or damaged one-way valves inside the veins, which are designed to ensure blood flows back to the heart. When these valves do not function correctly, blood can flow backward and pool. This pooling causes the veins to stretch, enlarge, and become twisted.
Can Varicose Veins Resolve on Their Own?
Once formed, varicose veins typically do not disappear naturally without medical intervention. The underlying issue of damaged or weakened vein valves is usually permanent and cannot heal on its own. Consequently, enlarged and twisted veins will persist and may even worsen over time.
An exception is pregnancy-related varicose veins. During pregnancy, increased blood volume and pressure on pelvic veins can lead to their development. For many women, these veins may shrink or disappear within several weeks to months after childbirth as hormone levels normalize and pressure on the veins decreases. However, this spontaneous resolution is not guaranteed, especially if the veins were severe, if there is a family history of varicose veins, or after multiple pregnancies, as underlying valve issues might still remain.
Managing Persistent Varicose Veins
Untreated varicose veins can lead to various complications beyond cosmetic concerns. These include persistent leg pain, a feeling of heaviness, swelling, and changes in skin appearance such as discoloration, itching, or dryness. In more severe instances, untreated varicose veins can result in venous ulcers, which are open sores difficult to heal, or increase the risk of blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Management typically begins with conservative measures to alleviate symptoms and prevent progression. Lifestyle adjustments, such as engaging in regular low-impact exercise like walking or swimming, maintaining a healthy weight, elevating the legs, and avoiding prolonged periods of standing or sitting, can improve blood circulation. Wearing compression stockings is also beneficial, as they apply external pressure to the legs, helping to reduce swelling and discomfort by supporting blood flow.
When conservative methods are insufficient, various medical procedures are available:
Sclerotherapy: A solution is injected to close the vein.
Minimally invasive techniques: Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) use heat to seal affected veins.
Ambulatory phlebectomy: Involves removing veins through tiny incisions.
Traditional vein stripping: May be considered for larger or bulging veins.