Studies are looking into the question: Do varicose veins lead to major depression?

hat was the study about and what did they find out?

Dr Salama: The basis for the first retrospective cohort study looking at the association between varicose veins and new-onset major depression was data from the Chang Gung Research Database. 10,640 patients with varicose veins and 42,560 controls without varicose veins were included in the study and followed for new-onset major depression. Patients with varicose veins were more likely to have a higher risk of developing new major depression than controls without varicose veins. The risk was 2.26 times higher in people with a chronic offen wound (venous ulcers) than in those without. In the latter, the risk was only 1.39 times higher. It is recommended that healthcare professionals are aware of the mental health of patients with varicose veins and provide psychosocial support.

Why is it important to address the link between varicose veins and major depression?

Dr Salama: Depression is associated with symptoms such as sadness, loss of interest, guilt, sleep disturbances and concentration problems. It can be chronic or recurrent and affect the person's ability to cope with everyday life. Another study using a validated disease-specific quality of life questionnaire with varicose vein patients from the vascular surgery outpatient clinic at Charing Cross Hospital in London concluded that varicose veins affect quality of life, especially when they are more severe. This finding highlights the importance of a more holistic approach to the treatment of patients with venous disease. Not only should the physical symptoms be treated, but also the psychological effects of the disease.

What conclusions have been drawn at LBCL Surgery & Vein Practice from the study result?

Dr Salama: We have recognised the psychological element in the treatment of varicose veins and therefore focus on education to fully inform patients about the causes and possible treatment options for varicose veins. A well-informed person can better understand what is happening to their body and what options are available to treat and control the condition. That is why we have also developed a 28-day treatment plan in which patients are followed. Not only are the clinical symptoms intensively controlled, but those affected also receive psychological support so that they do not feel alone. This is another reason why we follow the latest, most effective minimally invasive trends in the treatment of varicose veins, in order to make the post-operative period as short as possible and the results as quickly noticeable as possible. This helps to increase the patients' sense of life and general well-being.

What are the current trends in the treatment of varicose veins?

Dr Salama: In our treatments, we pay special attention to the aesthetics of the legs as well as to side effects of varicose veins such as skin pigmentation. We use the latest medical technologies to treat these side effects, which brings our patients renewed pleasure in their legs and their appearance. We prefer outpatient treatment to give patients the opportunity to recover at home in familiar surroundings. This avoids hospitalisation and makes the post-operative period much easier and friendlier.

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