An update on the diagnosis and treatment of varicose veins

Varicose veins are a common ailment affecting more than 20 million Americans. These veins and the associated venous hypertension are associated with leg swelling, pain, dermatitis, phlebitis, and ulceration. The underlying principle of treatment of any varicosity is the removal or obliteration of pathologically functioning veins and the preservation of those with normal function. Diagnosis is obvious, but deciding whether the varicose veins are responsible for the patient's symptoms is more difficult. Often a trial of graduated compression stockings is worth-while. Treatment consists of compression, sclerotherapy, and/or operation depending on the etiology and severity of the condition.