Varicose veins are an abnormality in the veins or veins characterized by widening of the veins which look like windings caused by venous valves.
Usually, varicose veins appear in the leg area because the blood vessels in this area are farthest from the heart and make it more difficult for blood to flow upwards.
The causes of varicose veins are:
- Reduced elasticity of the vein walls
The cause of varicose veins is reduced elasticity of the vein walls. This causes the veins to weaken so that they are unable to carry blood to the heart as they should. The flow of blood from the feet to the heart strongly opposes the earth's gravity. Therefore, blood vessels must be strong, as well as the dynamics of the muscles around them. Damage to blood vessel valves can cause blood to pool and cause clots that disrupt blood flow.
- Hereditary factors
This condition can cause problems with blood vessels, including varicose veins. If there are family members who have a history of varicose veins, then the chances of you experiencing this are higher.
- Pregnancy
The appearance of varicose veins during pregnancy is caused by pregnancy hormones. Apart from appearing on the legs, varicose veins also appear in the vagina, as well as around the buttocks and anus. This condition will generally improve after giving birth. To minimize swelling in the veins, you should start limiting your salt (sodium) intake during pregnancy.
- Lack of movement
If you don't move enough, it can cause blood to pool in your legs, causing varicose veins. In more serious cases, varicose veins trigger blood clots.
- Smoke
The ingredients in cigarettes are very dangerous and can make blood vessels stiffer and narrower so they are no longer elastic. This is what will cause the appearance of varicose veins.
- Too much standing
The habit of standing for too long is also a common cause of varicose veins. When a person stands too much, the blood in the leg veins has difficulty flowing to the heart. Blood that doesn't flow properly is caused by staying in the same position for too long.
- Often puts his feet on his lap
The habit of frequently lying on your feet should be avoided immediately. Because, this habit that is often done is the cause of varicose veins. Because, sitting like that will prevent blood from being carried to the heart. As a result, the veins become compressed so that blood accumulates around the veins.
- High cholesterol sufferers
A history of high cholesterol, diabetes and diabetes will increase the risk of varicose veins. The reason is, when people have diabetes and high cholesterol, the blood vessels no longer become elastic. Especially if you add obesity, aka overweight. When you are obese, it can put extra pressure on the blood vessels which can cause the veins to become swollen and disrupted.
- Habit of wearing high heels
The next cause of varicose veins is the habit of wearing high heels. This makes the foot support the body's weight on the heel. When this happens, heel muscle movement becomes passive, which will affect the performance of the veins. As a result of wearing high heels, the veins will malfunction.
Varicose veins can now be treated more easily and quickly, one of which is EVLT therapy (Endovenous Laser Therapy). EVLT is the latest minimally invasive therapy with incisions under 0.5 cm & using radial laser technology.
This therapy aims to close the blood vessels that cause varicose veins, so that blood can flow through healthy blood vessels.
EVLT advantages
- Small surgical wound <0.5 cm="" li="">
- Patients can immediately return to work 1 day after the therapy
- The aches immediately reduced/disappeared
- Feet become smoother
This article was written by dr. Richard Yehuda Limen, SP. B, SubBVE (K ) ( Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon Specialist at Grha Kedoya Hospital)