Davies Vascular Technology (VT) Practice Test

The greatest pressure of venous hypertension in secondary varicose veins occurs during muscle contraction. When muscles contract, particularly in the legs, they compress the underlying veins. This compression increases the pressure within the veins, especially if there are already issues with valvular incompetence or venous reflux, which are common in patients with varicosities.

During muscle contraction, the calf muscles propel blood upward toward the heart, helping to counteract the effects of gravity. However, if the valves in the veins are not functioning properly, this pumping action can lead to a significant buildup of pressure in the venous system, contributing to the hypertension seen in varicose veins.

The other scenarios represent states where the venous pressure is lower or more stable. For example, during relaxation of the muscles, the veins are less compressed, resulting in a decrease in pressure. When standing still, there can be increased pressure due to gravity, but it does not reach the levels seen with muscle contractions. Deep breathing can assist in venous return to some extent but does not exert pressure comparable to that generated during muscle contraction.