Varicose veins are twined, enlarged veins which are visible on the skin’s surface. They could appear anywhere but are usually found on the ankles and legs. Varicose veins are non-serious, but could in some cases, cause serious problems.
Causes of varicose veins formation
Your legs have veins which normally work to transport blood from your legs up to the heart. But when these valves and veins weaken due to certain factors, they could become blocked, enlarged, and twisted.
Risk factors for varicose veins
Heredity is one of the risk factors known for the development of varicose veins. Others may be contributed in by aging, pregnancy, occupational factors, or obesity.
Symptoms
There are a number of symptoms that could point to the presence of varicose veins, both serious and non-serious.
Non-serious
- Pain, heaviness, or soreness felt in the legs especially after prolonged periods of sitting or standing
- Swelling in feet and/or ankles
- Itching on the vein’s surface
Serious
- Swelling of the legs
- Inflammation
- Open sores
- Pain in the calves and swelling after prolonged sitting or standing
- Bleeding after a minor injury
Treatment options
There are quite a handful of available treatment options for varicose veins. These include lifestyle modifications, natural home remedies, and medical treatment procedures.
Lifestyle modifications
Regular exercise
- Obesity is one of the leading causes of varicose veins, since excessive weight in obese individuals exert more pressure on the lower limbs – causing poor blood circulation in these areas.
Refraining from prolonged periods of sitting or standing
- Standing up or sitting down for a long period of time hinders adequate flow of blood in the legs, thereby causing the development of varicose veins.
Do-It-Yourself remedies
- Wearing of compression stockings
- Avoiding clothing that is way too tight
- Elevating the legs
- Refraining from cross-leg positions
Medical procedures
Sclerotherapy
- Involves the injection of a sclerosant (salt solution) directly on the vein. This solution will prompt irritation on the inside of the vein, which leads to swelling and scarring. This varicose veins treatment is popular because it’s minimally invasive and doesn’t take long to finish. After the procedure, the patient can already drive and resume normal ambulation.
Laser surgery
- This technology utilizes radio active or laser light directed on the varicose veins to make them disappear. It is a noninvasive procedure and does not require hospital admission during or after therapy.
Vein ligation and stripping
- Here, small incisions are made near the vein, providing access for the specialist. These incisions will be utilized for the tying and closing off the veins. Since this is an invasive procedure, the patient will be temporarily sedated throughout; however, hospitalization is not required. The patient can be discharged safely after the procedure and once his senses have fully resumed.
A thorough discussion with your doctor should take place before you finally decide to undergo any medical treatment for varicose veins. This is because you might have underlying health conditions that could affect the effectiveness of these procedures or that might pose risks on your health if the procedure will be pursued.
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Cedric Loiselle is a passionate writer who consistently provides helpful information about health, beauty, and fitness. He recommends Southern Vein and Laser Institute for varicose and spider vein removal.