Varicose Veins and the Elderly

Certainly, we are all aware that the body starts to break down and to change in many ways as we age. The changes in our bodies are determined by many factors, including our lifestyle and our genetics. Varicose veins are very common in older people, and are usually found in the lower extremities. With age, the valves become incompetent, allowing blood to seep backwards. This seepage results in congestion and further distention of the veins.

What Causes This Problem?

Usually, when you see varicose veins in the elderly, they will be running down the legs. They are also possible in the rectum and esophagus. Factors that contribute to the severity of these veins in the elderly include obesity, thrombophlebitis, genetics, pelvic tumors, past pregnancies and prolonged standing. Certainly, someone who is elderly now who was always obese, who had a family history of varicose veins or who stood at their job for 40 years is likely to have an issue with varicose veins. Often times, elderly people will feel fatigue in their legs, leg pains and ankle swelling. They may also have veins that become thick, hard and more painful if they are left untreated.

Treatment for the Elderly

Doctors may recommend periods of rest each day with the legs elevated. They may say to bathe in warm water, to increase exercise and to change your routine so you aren't standing or sitting without movement at all for long periods of time. This is often a problem for the elderly, and prolonged sitting can increase problems with varicose veins. At times, doctors will recommend support stockings.

Medical Intervention for the Elderly

There are two main types of treatment used for the elderly who have varicose veins. For elderly people who are otherwise healthy but have veins that could pose a clotting problem, there is laser therapy. During this procedure, a laser is pointed right at the vein with the problem to collapse the vein and create better blood flow. There will be several treatment sessions for this therapy. The other treatment, sclerotherapy, is reserved for elderly people with veins that are simply annoying. During this procedure, the doctor will give medical injections directly into the vein in order to collapse it back into the leg. This procedure is also done over several sessions. One other procedure that is done less frequently is ligation and stripping. The varicose veins are severed and removed. The patient is then, often, instructed to wear elastic bandages and stockings after the surgery to create extra support for the veins.

If you are elderly and have varicose veins, or if you have a family member with these issues, it is important to seek medical attention. A doctor can examine the veins and can help you to decide on the best course of action for your specific case.