Vascular surgery

What causes varicose veins?

Venous diseases affect almost 30% of the Hungarian population and are one of the endemic diseases of modern times. Insufficient function of the valves in the veins plays a role in its formation, and because the blood in the veins cannot flow properly to the heart, the blood stagnates, and the blood vessels dilate.

Vascular problems affect both sexes. Venous diseases are more common in women, while atherosclerosis is a more common problem in men.

Factors involved in the development of varicose veins

• Sex: women develop a higher rate of varicose veins than men because female hormones relax the blood vessel walls and in dilated blood vessels, the valves, unchanged in size, no longer close properly.
• Being overweight: Excess weight puts extra strain on the veins, causing increased strain and extra work.
• Genetics: there is a greater risk of developing varicose veins if a lineal descendant suffers from it.
• Occupation: jobs that involve lots of standing increase varicose veins.
• Age: with increasing age, the walls of the veins begin to lose their elasticity and valve failure becomes more common.
• Pregnancy: the weight of the growing fetus puts constant pressure on the veins of the pelvis, and female hormones have a relaxing effect on the vessel wall.

When should you consult a vascular surgeon?

• In case of varicose veins in the lower limb
• By the end of the day, the area around the leg and ankle swells, causing a heavy leg sensation
• Pain in the upper thigh or back of the leg when walking, which decreases after stopping
• Difficult to heal wounds or ulcers on the legs appear regardless of whether an injury has occurred
• Hair-thin varicose veins appear on the legs, primarily causing an aesthetic problem
• In the case of limb pain at rest

What happens during vascular surgery?

After questioning the patient, fully investigating the complaint and reviewing the available medical documentation, the physician will perform a physical examination that will not cause any discomfort or pain. Following this, an imaging diagnostic procedure may be ordered - ultrasound, angiography - to make an accurate diagnosis. Based on the results obtained, if the vascular surgeon deems it necessary, they will recommend a surgical solution.

How should you arrive for the examination?

For the first consultation, the patient should bring along all their previous medical records, especially the results of vascular surgery tests.