VARICOSE VEINS.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XIX, Issue XXI, 13 November 1897, Page 670

VARICOSE VEINS.

Varicose veins are always due to longcontinued and unusual pressure of the blood within the blood-vessels, which causes them to stretch, Ixith in length and in width. The stretching occurs at intervals, and is usually in an advanced stage liefore pain is felt. The veins about the ankle or the calf are usually the first to be affected. A small, superficial part of the vein appears bluish and more prominent than usual, and may have a beaded outline. This condition may disappear for a time, but it recurs with increased discomfort. The enlarged veins, unless cared for, are liable to a number of complications. The tissue around an enlarged vein is poorly nourished, and is liable to infection and liegeneration, with rapid formation of ulcers, which are healed only with difficulty. The vein may become so enlarged at a point near the surface that the tissue over it may waste away and the vein be ruptured. The loss of blood is then considerable. Such a rupture is always alarming, and may lie dangerous to life. The hardened tissue often found around varicose veins is a result of exudation of the watery portion of the blood through their weakened walls. The lower extremities are most prone to varicosities of the veins, but the same condition is frequently found elsewhere. The treatment consists in early preventing their development. The circulation, especially in the diseased vein, must lie toned up. Hygienic and dietary measures should lie enniioyed to improve the general condition. The vein must be supported by local means. An elastic stocking, an elastic bandage, or a common roller bandage does this effectively. The bandage must lie tightly and smoothly applied, beginning at the toes, and by successive turns covering every portion of'the surface. While sitting, the patient should elevate the foot on a foot-rest. The foot of the lied should be slightly raised to facilitate the venous return. Standing, more than walking, increases varicosities. Walking ami cycling to excess may also increase the difficulty. After exercise, it is recommended that the affected parts lie bathed in cold water, ami the veins firmly rublied in the direction of the heart. Ulcers, hemorrhages, and other complications call for a physician's care.