Frequently asked questions
What symptoms/complaints indicate varicose veins?
Varicose veins can present as visibly enlarged veins that are prominent or palpable above the surface of the skin. Many patients with varicose veins report complaints such as tiredness and heaviness in the legs, swelling of the affected leg, nighttime calf cramps, pain or itching, as well as a feeling of tightness or restless legs. These symptoms can be indicative of venous insufficiency associated with varicose veins.
What is the role of veins?
The function of the veins is to transport deoxygenated blood back to the heart. The veins are equipped with one-way valves, which allow for this transport against the pull of gravity. These valves prevent backflow and thus the accumulation of blood in the legs.
How do varicose veins develop?
When the venous valves no longer function properly, blood begins to flow back into the legs. This backflow leads to an increase in pressure, a dilatation of the vein and the formation of side branches. If the backflow continues, these branches increase in size and become twisted or serpentine in appearance.
What are the risk factors for the development of varicose veins?
The risk of developing varicose veins is often linked to congenital connective tissue weakness, pregnancies, obesity, and age. Additionally, occupations that require prolonged standing or sitting, as well as a lack of physical activity, increase the risk of varicose veins because they prevent the activation of the calf muscle pump, thereby reducing the venous return of blood to the heart.
Are varicose veins just a cosmetic issue?
The answer to this question must be a clear “no.” Varicose veins indicate non-functioning venous valves, and the vein walls are dilated. As a result, there is a backflow of blood into the leg, leading to increased venous pressure. This elevated pressure can cause complications such as chronic venous insufficiency, skin changes, bleeding, edema, or thrombosis.
Can varicose veins lead to searious health consequences/complications?
Yes, varicose veins can lead not only to symptoms such as tightness, pressure, and heaviness in the legs but also to more serious health issues.
Long-standing varicose vein disease can result in chronic venous insufficiency, which may manifest as brown discoloration in the ankle region, hardening oft he skin and tissue, potentially leading to open sores (ulcus cruris). Inflammation and thrombosis in superficial varicose veins, known as varicophlebitis, can also occur. Additionally, elevated varicose veins can lead to severe bleeding.
Less commonly, deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolisms may occur, which require immediate medical treatment.
Can the appearance of varicose veins be prevented?
The risk of developing varicose veins is often influenced by genetics. While their occurrence cannot be completely prevented, the progression can be slowed down by following these recommendations:
- Engage in plenty of walking and lie down when resting rather than sitting or standing for prolonged periods.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Shower your legs with cold water.
- Engage in regular physical exercise.
- Take breaks every one to two hours during long car journeys
- Walk up and down the aisles when on trains or airplanes.
- Stand on your toes and rock slowly on your heals repeatedly
- Alternate lifting your toes and heels while seated. This activates the calf muscle pump and promotes the return of blood to the heart.
- Avoid wearing high heels.
What sports are good if I have varicose veins?
Sports that strengthen the calf muscles are particularly beneficial as they improve the return of blood to the heart. Water sports, such as swimming, are particularly suitable. The water pressure acts like a compression stocking and supports the veins. Other recommended activities include walking, cycling, and low-impact aerobic exercises, which promote circulation without putting undue pressure on the veins.
What are compression stockings used for?
Compression stockings envelop the leg externally and exert continuous, defined pressure on the leg, tissues, and veins. This pressure relieves the burden on the veins and lymphatic vessels. It reduces the amount of fluid moving into the tissues and decreases the diameter of the veins. This improves blood circulation by increasing the flow velocity of the blood. Additionally, the reduced vein diameter allows the valves to close more effectively, facilitating venous return to the heart.
If a diagnosed varicose vein condition is present, the costs of compression stockings are typically covered either partially or fully by health insurance, depending on the provider.
In order to achieve a good result and get the right stockings, the leg circumferences should be carefully measured. It is recommended to replace the compression stockings every 6 months.
We are happy to provide you with information in our practice about the various options and products available.
Can varicose veins reappear even though I have already had surgery/treatment?
Yes, varicose veins are a chronic disease. The cause of the disease, i.e. the weakness of the connective tissue that causes the veins to dilate, remains even after treatment / surgery. This can lead to the appearance of new varicose veins in the previously treated area or previously untreated vein sections can also undergo pathological changes. It is not possible to predict at what intervals after treatment/operation changes will occur or whether they will occur again at all.Proper treatment and follow-up after 3-6 months are recommended.
If symptoms reappear over the years, you should return for an evaluation. Recurrences can generally be treated in a minimally invasive manner.
How does my blood flow after the varicose veins are removed?
About 90% of venous blood drains through the deep venous system. In the initial examination, a Doppler ultrasound is used to check whether the deep veins are functional before a procedure is performed on the superficial veins. The blood can flow through the many existing superficial veins into the deep venous system and finally towards the heart.
Do I need a referral from my GP/family doctor?
In principle, we treat all patients regardless of their insurance status. You can make an appointment with us at any time by telephone, e-mail or via our website. However, if you are insured under a general practitioner model, you will need a referral from your general practitioner in order for your health insurance will cover the costs of the examination.
Will my health insurance cover the costs of treatment?
Since January 1, 2016, the costs of endovenous thermal ablation have been covered by all basic health insurances. Other therapies, such as compression therapy, are either partially or fully covered, depending on your provider. Strictly cosmetic therapies are not covered. Patients are usually responsible for the deductible and/or co-payment.