Beware of the varicose veins problem!

CIU Faculty of Medicine, Cardiovascular Surgery Specialist Prof. Dr. Barlas N. Aytaçoğlu, stated that varicose veins often show seasonal activation and cause more reasons for complaints during the summer. Aytaçoğlu noted that the feeling of heaviness in the legs, swelling due to edema around the ankles, and leg pains, that tend to be experienced during the evening, are typical symptoms of varicose veins.

Stating that there are basically two types of veins in our body, Aytaçoğlu said, “While arteries carry oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to our organs and tissues and feed them, veins carry the waste products and oxygen-poor blood formed in these tissues and organs to our heart. In the case of a deficiency in our veins, the condition that develops is called "venous insufficiency," more commonly known as "varicose veins".

Underlining that Varicose veins have a serious genetic inheritance, Prof. Dr. Aytaçoğlu stated, "It is more common to see in those who have a serious history of varicose veins in their family".

Stating that varicose veins are more commonly observed in certain profession groups, Aytaçoğlu said, "Although it is known as a teacher disease, it is a disease that mainly effects people who stand on their feet for long periods of time, such as hairdressers and chefs."

Emphasizing that prolonged standing or sitting in the same position for a long time is an effective factor in increasing varicose veins, Aytaçoğlu also explained that high-heeled shoes or hot environments such as sauna-baths, also cause an increase in symptoms.

“Varicose veins patients should definitely contact a cardiovascular surgery specialist”
Advising that varicose vein patients should definitely consult with a cardiovascular surgeon, Aytaçoğlu stated that it is important for patients to consult regarding the precautions that may be taken in terms of discomfort and lifestyle changes.

Aytaçoğlu also gave information regarding the treatment methods of the disease and said, "Sometimes the treatment administered may be with certain medications and socks, sometimes it may be necessary to administer surgery and / or other interventions such as laser and radiofrequency".

Drawing attention to the importance of early intervention in varicose disease, Aytaçoğlu emphasized that while the results to be obtained in late cases may be less pleasant, leg health can be seriously protected with early treatments.

Stating that patients with varicose veins should go for a lifestyle change, Aytaçoğlu advised, “It is strongly recommended to walk and / or swim to strengthen the leg muscles, rest during the day for 15-20 minutes by raising the legs above the heart level, and having cold showers, especially in hot weather”.