Q: My 60 years old hypertensive sister is having varicose veins and the doctor asked her to take Doppler scan for diagnosis. Three blocks have been found in the veins. Is it necessary to undergo surgery for this? She is not having any severe discomfort. Please advise.

A:Your sister has varicose veins of the leg with deep vein thrombosis as reported in the Doppler study. There are no symptoms, complications (varicose ulcer, pigmentation or oedema) and evidence of infection. In view of this I do not recommend surgery. She should do well with compression bandage or stockings for the lower limb while she is walking or standing. The same can be removed while resting with legs elevated or sleeping.