It is estimated that about 7% of the normal Indian population suffers from Varicose Veins. You yourself may have observed the condition – knotted, dark and bulging veins in the legs, often concentrated around the calf. If detected in the early stages, one need only follow the doctor’s instructions and make small changes to prevent the condition from progressing. But the questions remain – what is varicose veins, what are the symptoms and how can the condition be treated? We bring you all the answers straight from Dr Manas Saha of Apollo Multispeciality Hospital, Kolkata.

So, what are Varicose Veins? Dr Saha informs us that it is a condition where the veins in our legs are dilated and appear stained and bulging. The exact cause of the condition is yet unknown. However, it is mostly observed in people who spend considerable amounts of time on their feet for professional or personal reasons, such as chefs, traffic policemen or housewives. It has been postulated that standing for long periods of time puts more pressure on these veins than they are meant for, leading to the condition.

And, how would you know if you have Varicose Veins? The most common sign is dilated bulging veins in the calves or the entire leg. Another common symptom may be continuing pain and swelling of the legs, especially in the evening. However, the symptom that Dr Saha particularly warns us about is a discolouration of the legs, with deeply stained veins, some of which develop ulcers that refuse to heal even with treatment. This is a sign of heavy congestion in the veins, and should never be left untreated.

Speaking of treatment, Dr Saha informs us that is most cases where Varicose Veins are asymptomatic, no treatment is required. However, in cases of asymptomatic patients in showbiz or aviation, or those with severe symptoms, there have been a few different treatment options. These options are surgery and thermo-ablation. Both treatments are painful, done under heavy anaesthesia, bring with them the threat of complications and have a high recurrence rate. In spite of the problems, a lengthy and expensive combination of surgery and ablation have so far been used to treat Varicose Veins.

But here, Dr Saha brings us some good news. With the technique developed and modified in their institute, there is now a third form of treatment which has “no surgery, no stitches, no anaesthesia”, i.e. Venous Occlusion of the Varicose Veins. This procedure is carried out by injecting a special glue in pre-determined doses into the Varicose Veins and while the veins take some time to disappear, the symptoms are gone almost immediately. The procedure in relatively simple, completed in a single session and has a minimal rate of recurrence. Followed by proper care and wearing of the prescribed stockings, this revolutionary technique offered at Apollo Multispeciality Hospital, Kolkata could free you from Varicose Veins for life.

This report is published in a joint venture with Apollo Multispeciality Hospital, Kolkata.