What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are superficial veins that visibly twist and turn. The term ‘Krampfadern’ (varicose veins) originates from ‘Krummadern’ (crooked veins), even though many mistakenly associate it with leg cramps. Medically, varicose veins are referred to as varices, and the condition is called varicosis.
The vein walls change, and blood flow can temporarily or permanently go in the wrong direction. Without treatment, the condition continuously worsens over years. Every large varicose vein starts small. Specialists distinguish:
- Truncal varicosis – originating from the great collecting veins (great or small saphenous vein)
- Side branch varicosis – varicose veins that develop from side branches
- Reticular varices – net-like, smaller vein dilations
- Spider vein varicosis – fine vein changes directly under the skin
- Recurrent varicosis – recurrence after a previous treatment
Detailed information on their development can be found here:
How do varicose veins develop?
Symptoms and Causes
Varicose veins are not just an aesthetic problem. Due to a long-standing
venous insufficiency
, symptoms such as pain, a feeling of heaviness, and occasionally electrolyte imbalances with calf cramps can occur.
You can find out about prevention options here:
Can varicose veins be prevented?
Treatment Options
Modern medicine makes it possible to remove varicose veins gently and sustainably. A classic surgical operation is no longer necessary today. Innovative procedures such as the
endovenous laser ablation in combination with microsclerotherapy
or
vein-preserving therapies
represent safe and effective alternatives.
Learn more about the timeline of a treatment here:
How long does varicose vein treatment take?
An overview of the costs can be found here:
What does varicose vein treatment cost in Switzerland?
Conclusion
Varicose veins do not have to remain permanently. With modern
varicose vein treatment
at Angioclinic in Zurich, they can be gently removed – with lasting and aesthetically pleasing results.