RM INTERVIEW – DR OTA SCHÜTZ, VASCULAR SURGEON
Varicose veins are a problem for every third woman and every fourth man, age also plays a role
How do varicose veins actually originate and how to recognize them? We have asked the most sought-after Czech vascular surgeon, MUDr. Ota Schütz.
What percentage of women suffers from varicose veins and how big is the percentage amongst men? Is there a difference?
There is a significant difference. In our statistics we have 80% women and less than 20% men. We can say that every 3rd woman and every 4th man have spider/varicose veins. Of course, age is an important factor here. 20-30 years olds have varicose veins in 20-30%. Around 50 years of age about 50% of the population develops some form of varicose veins. Women are indeed more prone to varicose veins, three fundamental factors play major roles here: in addition to genetic predispositions we may add repeated pregnancies, hormonal cycle changes, and different anatomical structure of the pelvis.
How to recognize such a vein – how to distinguish it from the visible venous system?
The first signals are often problems such as night cramps, foot pains (even when you rest) and many others, including feelings of pressure, etc.
Must the vein be always visible?
It may not be visible at the early stage. Thus a clinical and ultrasound examination should be performed. There are veins that can be clearly seen, from the smallest spider veins to the large varicose veins, which are 80% on the inside of the lower legs. When the veins are knotted, twisted or bulging, showing beneath the skin, everyone recognizes them immediately. Both women and men are concerned with their unaesthetic look.
How do varicose veins actually arise?
The major veins of the legs pump about 10% of the venous blood towards the heart. In the event that the valves are insufficient and thus inoperative, and the veins are not so elastic anymore, then the valves open and the blood flows backward and pools in the vein.
How can exercising help with varicose veins?
Any aerobic exercise is good for prevention. We can say that exercising significantly helps to preserve the veins and and slows the process of widening. The genetic predispositions are difficult to avoid. Sports and exercises also prevent obesity, which is another key negative factor. The venous system also does not benefit at all from long sitting and standing periods of time, these actually make this condition even worse.
