You may have seen varicose veins on your legs or body. Although they are fairly common, spotting these can leave you wondering where they come from and what exactly they are. Varicose veins are simply larger, bulgy veins that appear in the lower leg.
They occur when the valves in the veins fail, allowing blood to collect, with the veins becoming enlarged and prominent.
This video explains precisely how these veins are formed. In short, they have valves that stopped working so blood remains in place and makes the veins pop. Veins become enlarged and more prominent when they can no longer effectively return blood to the heart. This condition affects millions of people across the globe and can range from mild cosmetic concerns to painful and grave health implications.
Causes of Varicose Veins
For those of us who know how these veins feel, we know they can be annoying. There are multiple factors that can lead to these veins. These can also arise because of genetics but there are many other reasons they can also manifest.
The most common causes are:
Genetics: If your parents or grandparents had varicose veins, you have a greater chance yourself.
Age: As we age, veins lose elasticity with time, causing them to work improperly.
Pregnancy: The hormonal changes in pregnancy lead to increased blood volume, which can cause veins to expand and varicose veins to develop.
Prolonged Standing or Sitting: Occupations that require a lot of standing or sitting can put more pressure on the veins and negatively affect circulation.
Obesity: Added pounds increase pressure on the veins, making it difficult for them to return blood to the heart.
Hormonal Changes: Taking birth control pills, transitioning through menopause, and experiencing other hormonal changes can cause vein walls to weaken and varicose veins to form.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Varicose veins can lead to many other symptoms besides the visible appearance of the veins themselves. Some people experience:
Aching or Heaviness in the Legs: Those with varicose veins often describe heaviness, ache, or fatigue in the legs, particularly after extended standing.
Swelling: Edema, or excess fluid in the lower leg, can lead to swelling, particularly later in the day.
Burning or Itching: Some individuals experience a burning or itching sensation near varicose veins.
Restless Leg Syndrome: According to a few studies, varicose veins have been associated with restless leg syndrome, a condition that makes individuals experience unpleasant sensations in their legs and a strong desire to move their legs.
Skin Changes and Ulcers: In advanced stages, varicose veins can cause skin changes such as discoloration or even ulcers, especially around the ankles.
Preventing Varicose Veins
Even if genes or advanced age make them unavoidable, there are things you can do to reduce the risk of varicose veins and the discomfort:
Get Regular Exercise: Walking, swimming, and cycling can all help improve circulation and strengthen leg muscles to enable blood to flow more efficiently.
Control Your Weight: Maintaining your weight reduces strain on your veins and facilitates blood circulation.
Minimize Extended Standing or Sitting: If you sit at a desk or stand at work for long periods, get up and move around or stretch your legs throughout the day.
Elevate your legs: Propping your legs up above the level of the heart for a few minutes per day can help decrease swelling and enhance circulation.
Wear compression stockings: Compression stockings apply gentle pressure to support your veins and reduce discomfort.
Keep Hydration and Balanced Diet: Having high-fiber and low-sodium in your diet can curb swelling and maintain the vascular health.
Varicose Veins Treatment Options
If lifestyle changes and home remedies aren't helping to relieve discomfort, there are plenty of medical treatments available for varicose veins. These include:
Sclerotherapy: A minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting a special solution into the vein to collapse it and redirect blood flow to healthier veins.
Laser Therapy: A powerful beam of light is directed onto small varicose veins to seal them, prompting them to fade.
Radiofrequency or Endovenous Laser Ablation: This procedure uses heat energy to close larger varicose veins to improve circulation and reduce symptoms.
Surgical Procedures: In serious situations, they might recommend vein stripping or ligation to get rid of damaged veins.
Living with Varicose Veins
While varicose veins may be bothersome, they don't always need to be treated by a doctor. Most people control their symptoms with simple lifestyle changes. If you're uncomfortable, you can take steps to smooth things out, such as exercising, elevating your legs, and wearing compression stockings. But if varicose veins are causing prolonged pain, swelling, or changes in the skin, it's best to see a physician for advice on treatment options.
