Varicose Veins

Gambaran umum

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that often look blue or dark purple. They happen when the tiny valves inside your veins stop working properly, causing blood to pool in the vein instead of flowing back to your heart.

Yes, varicose veins are very common. About 1 in 4 adults will develop them at some point in their lives.

Anyone can get varicose veins, but they are more common in women, older adults, people who stand or sit for long periods, and those who are pregnant or have a family history of the condition.

Gejala

Gejala umum

• Visible, bulging veins that are blue or dark purple
• Aching, heavy, or tired legs, especially after standing or sitting for a long time
• Swelling in the feet and ankles
• Itching or burning around the vein
• Leg cramps at night

Gejala pada anak-anak

• Varicose veins are rare in children. If they occur, they may be linked to a condition called congenital venous malformation.

Gejala pada lansia

• Symptoms may be more noticeable and include more severe aching, swelling, and skin changes like thinning or discoloration.

Penyebab

Penyebab utama

• Weak or damaged valves inside the veins that allow blood to flow backwards and pool
• Walls of the veins that have become stretched and less elastic

Faktor risiko

• Getting older
• Being female, especially due to hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
• Pregnancy (increases blood volume and pressure on leg veins)
• Family history of varicose veins
• Being overweight or obese
• Jobs that require standing or sitting for long hours every day
• Having a condition that increases pressure in the veins, such as chronic constipation or a tumour

Kapan harus ke dokter

Segera temui dokter jika:

• If you have sudden, severe pain in your leg along with swelling or redness
• If an ulcer or sore on your leg is not healing or bleeds a lot

Buat janji temu rutin jika:

• If varicose veins are causing you pain, discomfort, or affect your daily life
• If you have skin changes like darkening, thickening, or rashes near your ankles
• If you are concerned about the appearance of your veins

Diagnosis

Your doctor can usually diagnose varicose veins by looking at your legs while you stand. They may also ask about your symptoms and medical history.

Tes yang mungkin dilakukan

• Doppler ultrasound: a painless test that uses sound waves to check blood flow through your veins

Apa yang diharapkan saat janji temu

During a Doppler ultrasound, you will lie down or stand while a small device is moved over your skin. It is safe and does not hurt. The test helps the doctor see if the valves in your veins are working properly.

Perawatan

Treatment for varicose veins depends on your symptoms. Many people do not need any treatment. For those who do, options include lifestyle changes, compression stockings, and procedures to close or remove the affected veins.

Perawatan mandiri di rumah

• Exercise regularly, such as walking or swimming, to improve blood flow
• Elevate your legs when resting, ideally above the level of your heart
• Avoid standing or sitting for long periods without taking breaks to move
• Wear compression stockings during the day (they gently squeeze your legs to help blood flow)
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your veins

Perawatan medis

If symptoms are bothersome, your doctor may recommend procedures such as endovenous laser treatment (using heat to seal the vein), radiofrequency ablation (using radiofrequency energy), sclerotherapy (injecting a solution that makes the vein scar and close), or ambulatory phlebectomy (removing small veins through tiny cuts). These are done in a clinic and usually let you go home the same day.

Kapan operasi dipertimbangkan?

Surgery may be considered for very large or severe varicose veins that do not improve with other treatments. A common surgical procedure is high ligation and vein stripping, but it is used less often now because newer, less invasive options are available.

Hidup dengan kondisi ini

Living with varicose veins can be manageable. Simple steps like wearing compression stockings, taking walks, and putting your feet up can ease discomfort. If you have symptoms, talk to your doctor about what might help you.

Tips gaya hidup

• Wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing and avoid high heels or tight shoes that can affect circulation
• Avoid crossing your legs when sitting, as this can restrict blood flow
• Stay active and move around regularly, especially if you have a desk job

Diet dan olahraga

A healthy diet rich in fibre can help prevent constipation, which reduces pressure on veins. Regular low-impact exercise like walking, swimming, or cycling helps keep blood moving. Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days.

Kesehatan mental dan kesejahteraan emosional

Some people feel self-conscious about the appearance of varicose veins. If you feel sad, anxious, or avoid activities because of your veins, it’s okay to ask for support. Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. If you are in crisis, please reach out to a helpline or your local emergency number.

Pencegahan

You cannot always prevent varicose veins, especially if you have a family history. However, you can lower your risk by staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding long periods of standing or sitting without breaks.

Komplikasi

Jika tidak diobati

• Skin changes such as darkening, thinning, or hardening around the ankle
• Bleeding from a varicose vein that may be heavy
• Leg ulcers (open sores) that can be slow to heal
• Superficial thrombophlebitis (inflammation and small blood clots in veins near the skin surface)
• Deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot in a deep leg vein, which is serious)

Prospek jangka panjang

For most people, varicose veins do not cause long-term health problems. Even if they become uncomfortable or lead to complications, treatments are very effective. With good self-care and medical help when needed, you can manage the condition and continue your usual activities.

Cari dukungan

Organisasi internasional

• Circulation Foundation ↗
• VascularCures (US-based, but offers international resources) ↗

Organisasi lokal

• NHS (UK) ↗ · United Kingdom
• British Vein Institute ↗ · United Kingdom

Saluran bantuan

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