Abstract
Background:Cases of varicose veins are increasing globally. One of the most common risk factors for developing varicose veins is the female gender. Varicose veins not only affect one’s working ability but also reduce the quality of life. There is a lack of research that focuses on the effect of varicose veins on patients’ quality of life in Saudi Arabia.Objective:The aim of this study was to explore the quality of life of female Saudi Arabian patients with varicose veins.Methods:An analytical cross-sectional research study was conducted targeting women with varicose veins in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. An online questionnaire containing two sections was distributed through social media. The first section was composed of items regarding demographic, occupational, and varicose vein-related risk factors. The second section included the items of the Chronic Venous Insufficiency Quality of Life Questionnaire (CIVIQ).Results:The study included 128 female patients aged 18 years or older, with 57 (44.5%) of them being between the ages of 45 and 54 years. Only body mass index (β = -0.304, t = -2.870, p = 0.005), frequent constipation (β = -0.258, t = -2.870, p = 0.009), and long rest periods during work (β = 0.517, t = 2.111, p = 0.037) were significant predictors of quality of life.Conclusion:Higher body mass index and frequent constipation were the main contributors to reduced quality of life among the participants, while a prolonged rest period during work was associated with a better quality of life.
Highlights
Varicose Veins (VVs) are enlarged, tortuous veins that can affect various parts of the body, but they are primarily found in the lower extremities [1]
The second section included the items of the Chronic Venous Insufficiency Quality of Life Questionnaire (CIVIQ)
The study included 128 female patients aged 18 years or older, with 57 (44.5%) of them being between the ages of 45 and 54 years
Summary
Varicose Veins (VVs) are enlarged, tortuous veins that can affect various parts of the body, but they are primarily found in the lower extremities [1]. In addition to being an unwanted cosmetic condition that affects the patients psychologically, VVs can cause many physical symptoms, such as skin discoloration, burning and itching sensations, and swelling of the lower extremities, which usually cause pain and discomfort [1]. Developing VVs can impair a person’s functioning ability and productivity and reduce their QoL [15]. Cases of varicose veins are increasing globally. Varicose veins affect one’s working ability and reduce the quality of life. There is a lack of research that focuses on the effect of varicose veins on patients’ quality of life in Saudi Arabia
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