Veins are blood vessels that transport blood from organs, muscles, and other tissues throughout the body back to the heart. They have one-way valves to prevent blood from returning to the heart.
Varicose veins are swollen and twisted veins that can develop in both men and women. An estimated 35% of adults in the United States have varicose veins, which are often harmless but can lead to circulation complications. Treatment, which may be performed for cosmetic or medical reasons, typically entails the removal or closure of affected veins.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins in Men
Bulging veins in the lower legs are the primary symptoms of varicose veins in men. Aside from their appearance, varicose veins rarely cause any other symptoms.
Aching legs, heaviness in the lower legs and feet, itchiness, nighttime cramps, and swelling in the lower legs are all symptoms of varicose veins.
Causes of Varicose Veins in Men
Varicose veins form when the veins are under too much pressure. This can happen if the vein's valves or other parts become weak or injured. As a result, blood can begin to pool, causing veins to swell.
Risk Factors for Varicose Veins in Men
Varicose veins can be caused by a variety of factors. Age, a family history of varicose veins, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and standing for long periods without walking are all risk factors.
Complications of Varicose Veins
Varicose veins can have an impact on the appearance of the legs, which is why many people seek treatment. Large or numerous varicose veins, on the other hand, may pose a health risk. The following are some of the most common health issues associated with varicose veins.
Deep vein thrombosis
Varicose veins frequently affect veins near the skin's surface. Phlebitis occurs when these veins harden and become warm to the touch. A clot (also known as a thrombus) that forms in a superficial vein as a result of phlebitis usually does not pose a serious health risk and resolves on its own.
Blood clots in varicose veins differ from deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which occurs when a clot forms in a deeper vein in the leg. DVT can become detached and travel to the lungs, where it can become a pulmonary embolism, blocking blood flow and limiting the body's ability to oxygenate the blood.
Leg ulcer
A varicose vein-caused leg ulcer is also known as a venous ulcer. These ulcers are open sores that are difficult to heal because swollen veins impair blood flow in the legs. Leg ulcers commonly develop near the ankle.
May-Thurner syndrome
May-Thurner syndrome is a rare condition in which an artery in the pelvis compresses a vein, causing dangerous blood clot formation. May-Thurner syndrome is characterized by varicose veins, venous ulcers, and swelling in the affected leg.
Treatments
There are three primary varicose vein treatment options. They are all generally safe and effective, with quick recovery times.
Endovenous ablation
This procedure uses lasers or radiofrequency energy to seal off the affected vein. The procedure is performed as an outpatient under local or general anesthesia. Bruising and temporary skin discoloration are common side effects of the procedure.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is another common procedure used to treat varicose and spider veins. It is also an outpatient procedure with a quick recovery time. During sclerotherapy your vein doctor injects a solution into the varicose vein with a very fine needle, causing it to shrink and close off.
Surgery
For larger or deeper varicose veins, surgery to remove the affected portion of the blood vessel may be the best option. One common surgical procedure, known as vein ligation and excision, involves tying off the varicose vein's source and removing portions of the swollen varicose vein.
This can be combined with vein stripping, which has largely been replaced by the ablation procedure. Stab phlebectomy is a procedure that removes affected veins through small incisions.