Varicose veins is a condition where the blood in the veins stops flowing instead it gets collected in a certain portion of a body like legs. This makes the veins twisted, enlarged and swollen. This condition of veins is called varicose veins. Our veins have a valve when this valve stops proper functioning then the blood doesn't flow towards the heart and gets pooled. The most susceptible body part of this disease is legs because it is farthest from our heart also the gravitation makes it difficult for blood to reach the heart. This disease is more common in women, it is also known as varicosities or varicosis.
Symptoms
In most of the cases, there is no pain still the symptoms of this disease can include:
- Twisted bulged and swollen veins
- Veins will appear dark purple or blue
Few other symptoms are:
- Painful sensation in legs
- Venous eczema i.e.skin in the infected area appears red and dry
- Spider veins
- Lipodermatosclerosis i.e. skin shrinking in ankle portion because the fat just above the ankle becomes hard
- Swollen ankles
- Atrophied Blanche which is appearance of scar-like whitish patch over ankles
- Skin discoloration of the portion affected by varicose veins
- Frequent leg cramps
- Throbbing in legs after remaining in the same position (sitting or standing) for a long time
- Showing restless leg syndrome
- If injured in the affected area, bleeding is heavier than normal
Causes
Circulation of oxygen-rich blood is maintained to all parts of the body from the lungs. This is done through arteries which has a thick layer of elastic tissue, whereas to push blood back to the heart veins are mainly dependent on surrounding muscles and a cup-shaped one-way valve. These valves alternately open to restrict blood flow in the opposite direction. When these valves do not function properly which leads to pooling of blood in veins which makes it difficult even for muscles to ensure the blood flow against gravity without the support of valves. Gradually this increases the venous pressure and causes the deformation of veins. This condition mostly occurs due to any condition that puts excessive pressure on the legs or abdominal portion. Some of the most common reasons are:
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Age above 50 years
- Menopause
- Exhaustion of legs (such as standing for long periods)
- Damaged or weak valves
Treatment
Varicose veins treatment mostly depends on its severity, usually, most mild cases do not require physicians' attention, you may get relief from several home remedies and changes in your daily lifestyle like:
- Regular exercise
- Losing weight, if obese
- At regular intervals keep changing your position (standing <-> sitting)
- Elevating legs for 5-10 minutes after every fixed period of time
- Changing to a diet rich in fiber and low salt
Another way to treat varicose veins is by using compression stockings. This product creates a high pressure which support legs to push the blood towards the heart. Maximum pressure is applied in ankle areas and as you move up pressure decreases. Few other medical procedures may also be recommended by doctors in extreme conditions. Some of these procedures are:
- Laser treatment
- Sclerotherapy
- Surgical removal, or stripping
Disclaimer: The information in no way constitutes, or should be construed as medical advice. Nor is the above article an endorsement of any research findings discussed in the article an endorsement for any of the source publications.
