VARICOSE VEINS

VARICOSE VEINS

Varicose veins (varicoses or varicosities) occur when your veins become enlarged, dilated, and overfilled with blood. They typically appear swollen and raised, have a bluish-purple or red color, and can be painful.

The condition is very common, especially in women.

Causes of varicose veins

Varicose veins occur when veins aren’t functioning properly. Veins have one-way valves that prevent blood from flowing backward. When these valves fail, blood begins to collect in the veins rather than continuing toward your heart. The veins then enlarge. Varicose veins often affect the legs. The veins there are the farthest from your heart, and gravity makes it harder for the blood to flow upward.

Some potential causes for varicose veins include:

  • pregnancy
  • menopause
  • age over 50
  • standing for long periods of time
  • obesity
  • family history of varicose veins
Symptoms of varicose veins

The primary symptoms of varicose veins are highly visible, misshapen veins, usually on your legs. You may also have pain, swelling, heaviness, and achiness over or around the enlarged veins.

In some cases, you can develop swelling and discoloration. In severe cases, the veins can bleed significantly, and ulcers can form.

Treating and preventing varicose veins

In general, doctors are conservative when treating varicose veins. You’ll probably be advised to make changes to your lifestyle, instead of trying more aggressive treatments.

Lifestyle changes

The following changes may help prevent varicose veins from forming or becoming worse:

  • Avoid standing for extended periods of time.
  • Lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
  • Exercise to improve your circulation.
  • Use compression socks or stockings.

If you already have varicose veins, you should take these steps to prevent new varicose veins. You should also elevate your legs whenever you’re resting or sleeping.

Compression

Your doctor may advise you to wear special compression socks or stockings. These place enough pressure on your legs so that blood can flow more easily to your heart. They also decrease swelling.

The level of compression varies, but most types of compression stockings are available in drugstores or medical supply stores.