Prognosis
As with all surgical procedures, these too involve certain risks (bleeding, infections, pain, allergies, etc.). However, the prognosis after successful removal of the varicose veins is good, as the complaints are usually eliminated. However, a recurrence of the varicose veins cannot be ruled out, as only the symptoms, but not the cause, have been treated.
Regular follow-up examinations are therefore recommended. Due to the lack of oxygen exchange between blood and tissue, which is caused by the accumulation of waste products and oxygen deprivation. In the worst case, the result is an “open” leg” (ulcus cruris).
In addition, clots can easily form in the congested blood column, which can lead to a thrombosis. If these clots dissolve and are carried along with the bloodstream and follow it into the lung, a pulmonary embolism may occur. This is a serious, often fatal complication.
Superficial veins that are closed by a thrombus (blood clot) can also become inflamed (thrombophlebitis = superficial phlebitis). Furthermore, pus bacteria can accumulate here, which are transported through the bloodstream and can cause blood poisoning (sepsis). The risk of thrombosis in varicose veins is increased.
Since the blood flow in the dilated vessels is slowed down, blood clots can form. Symptoms of thrombosis are a stabbing pain in the leg and redness and swelling below the affected area. A particularly unpleasant pressure pain in the sole of the foot is also frequently described.
By elevating the leg, the pain is usually relieved. The higher the thrombosis is located on the leg, the more pronounced the symptoms are. In the case of thromboses, there is a risk that the clot will detach and cause a so-called pulmonary embolism in the pulmonary circulation. Preventive measures include compression stockings and thrombosis injections.
Prophylaxis
Varicose veins can be prevented by appropriate measures. Physical activity is important, especially the alternating tensing and relaxing of the leg muscles to activate the so-called muscle pump. This means that the muscles help the veins to pump the blood back towards the heart and help prevent vein overload.
Furthermore, alternating showers or baths should be used to strengthen the vein muscles and to improve the blood flow in the veins and the blood supply to the body. Prolonged standing or sitting should be avoided as far as possible. One should go barefoot as often as possible and avoid wearing shoes with high heels.
In addition, one should not expose oneself to high outside temperatures for too long, such as in the sauna, in order to avoid excessive dilatation of the veins and thus a strong slowing down and possible stagnation of the blood flow.Varicose veins can be prevented with sports, for example. Endurance training strengthens the muscles and the “muscle pump” that drives our blood flow in the legs is activated. As a result, the blood can’t get stuck in the legs.
Leg and vein gymnastics also have a preventive effect. Healthy nutrition and sufficient fluid intake also have a positive effect. Long periods of sitting or standing should be avoided.
The change from heat to cold increases the elasticity of the vessels. For example, after a hot shower, the legs can be showered cold or cold foot baths can be taken. Raising the legs increases the blood flow back to the heart and also prevents the blood from settling.
Wearing flat shoes and loose clothing is also recommended. Too tight pants can pinch off vessels in some places, such as the hollow of the knee, and prevent the steady flow of blood. If varicose veins occur, it is advisable to consult a doctor at an early stage to prevent the progression of the disease and complications.
Since about 80 percent of a person’s blood is in the venous system and varicose veins usually have an enlarged diameter, there can be a lot of bleeding if a varicose vein bursts. Since the wall of a varicose vein is very weak, it can easily tear open with a small injury. In order to stop the bleeding, a pressure bandage should be applied and the affected person should be brought into a lying position.
To further reduce the pressure, the corresponding leg can be elevated. In the case of a ruptured varicose vein, it is always advisable to consult a doctor to ensure safe healing of the wound and appropriate therapy. For treatment, either compression therapy is used or a minor surgical procedure is performed to remove the affected vessel. If varicose veins in the leg are at high risk of bursting, they should be removed prophylactically or sclerosed.
