VARICOSE VEINS.- This is a distended condition of the veins of the softer and more dependent parts. It is due to weakening of their walls from some degenerative change, in consequence of which they are unable to withstand the pressure of the blood within. Varicose veins are often found in rheumatic persons. Varicose veins are generally painless, except when the veins become inflamed or give rise to ulcers. When the space at the back of the knee is the seat of varicose veins, pain in knee is a frequent accompaniment.
General Treatment.-The chief general indication is to give the veins support, both in their tissues and externally. External; support is best afforded by an ordinary roller bandage, an elastic stocking, or an india-rubber bandage applied to the limb. The last is the best, as it is not only a support, but is actually curative in many instances. Rest in the recumbent positions is always a great help, and standing is of course bad. Where there is a tendency to varicose veins, much standing will be sufficient to cause them. But sometimes, inspite of most adverse conditions, medicines will effect a cure.
Medicines.-(Two or three times a day.)
Pulsatilla3.
-When there is pain in the veins and they have a tendency to inflame. Most useful in mild tempered, impressionable persons.
Hamamelis I.
-Perhaps the most useful of all medicines in varicose conditions.
Ac. Fluor.3 -In old-standing cases, after Hamamelis.
