varicose veins

Question 1

what are varicose veins

Answer 1

dilated and tortuous superficial veins primarily affecting lower limbs due to incompetent valves causing retrograde flow and blood pooling.

Question 2

risk factors of varicose veins

Answer 2

female, hormonal changes, family history, prolonged standing in occupation, obesity, progesterone, oral contraceptive/

Question 3

signs of varicose veins

Answer 3

visible superficial vein, pain, oedema, venous ulcer, skin discolouration, risk of haemorrhage

Question 4

investigation of varicose veins

Answer 4

doppler ultrasound - key diagnostic measure, duplex ultrasound - used to measure blood flow and detect blockage, venography, MR venography

Question 5

when do varicose veins need treatment

Answer 5

only need treatment if symptoms like bleeding, pain, ulceration, thrombophlebitis.

Question 6

management of varicose veins

Answer 6

lifestyle changes, radiofrequency ablation, endovenous laser, injection sclerotherapy, surgery