Diagnostics for varicose veins in pregnancy | Varicose veins during pregnancy

Diagnostics for varicose veins in pregnancy

The method of first choice for determining a venous function problem is the so-called duplex sonography. This is an ultrasound examination in which the blood flow in the vascular system can be displayed in color and analyzed. The permeability of the deep leg veins and the functioning of the superficial veins and their connecting veins are assessed. The venous function tests that were previously frequently performed have lost their importance due to this simple and meaningful method, but are still well suited for an initial assessment.

Accompanying symptoms of varicose veins during pregnancy

In the case of varicose veins (varicosis), a feeling of heaviness in the legs may initially occur. Pain, itching and a feeling of tension in the area of the varicose veins are accompanying symptoms. In addition, there may also be a sensation of discomfort and calf cramps.

After a long day, the ankles can become thick and store water (edema). Typical symptoms are an aggravation of the symptoms in hot weather and an improvement when the legs are raised. If a vein weakness persists for a very long time, metabolic products of the blood can pass through the vessel wall into the tissue.

Iron deposits in the skin are particularly noticeable in the form of dark spots. After some time, the skin can become inflamed. It becomes red, tense and flaky. If a varicosis remains untreated for a long time, ulcers of the skin with open wounds, the so-called ulcers, can occur.

Pain in varicose veins during pregnancy

Varicose veins can become very painful, especially after long periods of standing or heat. Raising and cooling the legs can help. If the pain gets worse, a doctor should be consulted. Reasons for severe pain can include bleeding, inflammation of the varicose vein, substance defects in the lower leg or deep vein thrombosis.

Treatment of varicose veins during pregnancy

The possibilities of varicose vein treatment depend on the type and stage of the disease. Both conservative and surgical therapies are available. In principle, a healthy lifestyle, non-smoking and weight control have a positive effect on the disease.

A lot of sport and exercise strengthens the muscles and thus promotes the removal of blood from the legs through the muscle pump function.Cold baths according to Kneipp are also useful, as the veins contract in cold weather. Among the medicinal plants used to contract the vascular walls are Furthermore, a therapy with compression stockings can prevent the occurrence of accompanying symptoms. In the case of oedema, decongestion therapy or manual lymph drainage can help.

In the case of small-caliber varicose veins, the broom ripper, a so-called sclerotherapy can be performed. In this procedure, a substance is injected into the varicose vein, which closes it and thus makes it impermeable to congested blood. In case of massive complaints, frequent complications or for cosmetic reasons, surgery may also be considered.

In vein stripping, the diseased part of the vein is removed. In addition, the connection between superficial and deep veins can be severed at the level of the groin, which is called crossectomy.

  • Horse chestnut extracts,
  • Red vine leaves
  • And butcher’s broom root.