Most patients with varicose veins have fears or concerns about the future, in addition to their presenting symptoms.
BACKGROUND
This study aimed to document fears and concerns of patients about their varicose veins.


METHODS
Completed questionnaires about symptoms and concerns were brought to clinic by 62% (203/329) patients referred with uncomplicated primary varicose veins. 'Concerns, worries or fears' about their veins were reported by 79%. These were seldom mentioned in referral letters, and included fears about thrombosis (31%), trauma (16%), ulcers (15%) and general concerns about the future (57%).


CONCLUSIONS
Many patients have unrecognised fears and concerns about their varicose veins. Specific enquiry and reassurance about these is part of good management and may avoid unnecessary treatment.
Campbell
W B
WB
Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter EX2 5DW, UK. bruce.campbell@nice.nhs.uk
Decaluwe
H
H
Macintyre
J B
JB
Thompson
J F
JF
Cowan
A R
AR
D000328:Adult; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005239:Fear; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014648:Varicose Veins / Q000523:psychology*