Appointment
Shaare Zedek Hospital
026555999
026555014
Dr. Jacob Zittoun - ד״ר ג׳קוב זיתון
רדיולוג פולשני
Superficial venous insufficiency
Varicose veins are abnormally enlarged, twisted, and dilated veins, usually occurring in the lower extremities (thighs and legs). They are caused by venous insufficiency, a condition in which veins struggle to return blood from the legs to the heart. Varicose veins are especially common among adults over the age of 50.
Risk Factors for Venous Insufficiency
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Aging: Loss of elasticity in the vein walls.
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Heredity: Genetic predisposition to venous insufficiency.
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Pregnancy: Increased venous pressure due to the weight of the fetus.
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Obesity: Additional pressure on the veins.
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Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity.
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Prolonged Standing or Sitting: Impairs normal blood flow.
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History of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Affects vein function.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Varicose Veins
Increased venous pressure can cause symptoms such as:
Pain, feeling of heaviness or fatigue in the legs,s welling (especially in the ankles), nighttime muscle cramps, itching, skin changes such as eczema or ulcers.
Diagnosis is made through clinical examination and imaging tests like Doppler ultrasound.
Possible Complications of Varicose Veins
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Venous Ulcer: An open sore on the skin, usually around the ankle, that is difficult to heal.
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Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A dangerous condition where a blood clot can break free and travel to the lungs, potentially causing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.
Prevention of Varicose Veins
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Maintaining a healthy body weight
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Regular physical activity
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Avoiding prolonged standing or sitting
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Wearing compression stockings
Treatments for Varicose Veins
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Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a non-invasive treatment involving the injection of a sclerosing agent into the affected veins, causing them to shrink and gradually disappear. The agent can be in liquid or foam form, and the treatment is done in a clinic without the need for hospitalization. Multiple sessions may be required to achieve optimal results.
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Endovenous Thermal Ablation
This treatment involves inserting a catheter into the affected vein through a small puncture, then heating the vein wall using thermal energy (radiofrequency or laser). The heat causes the vein to stick together and close, leading to its gradual disappearance. Advantages include being minimally invasive, having a short recovery time, and yielding good cosmetic results.