Say Goodbye to Varicose Veins
January 25, 2024Varicose veins are the twisted, bulging, bluish cord-like veins that lie just underneath our skin. This condition is commonly caused by weak or damaged vein walls and valves. They usually appear on the legs and feet but can also be formed in other parts of the body. They are after due to increased blood pressure inside the veins, which can be caused by pregnancy, obesity, constipation, and more and result due to valvular malfunction.
The one-way valves inside the veins, open and close to let the blood flow towards the heart. And when these valves are damaged or weakened, the blood is forced to flow backward. The veins may then grow larger and twisted to form varicose veins.
Symptoms of Varicose veins
A lot of people do not notice any signs or symptoms of varicose veins, and it could simply be just a cosmetic issue. However, some of the common symptoms of varicose veins include; achy legs or discomfort caused by circulatory problems, itching sensation, and discoloration of the skin around the veins, and worsened pain while standing or sitting for a long period. When the condition worsens you may also feel burning, throbbing, and swelling in the lower legs.
The following can increase the risk of developing varicose veins
- Sitting/ standing for prolonged periods of time
If you sit or stand for long periods and lead an inactive life there are high chances that you will be at risk of developing varicose veins.
- Overweight obesity
Being overweight or obese can also put extra pressure on the leg veins and this makes it difficult to pump blood back to the heart.
- Family history
There is compelling evidence that varicose veins have a hereditary factory. If your parents or one of them have had varicose veins, your chances of getting them are higher.
- Pregnancy and childbirth
Varicose veins are common during pregnancy or childbirth, especially when it comes to multiple births. This happens when the uterus applies pressure on the leg veins that carry blood back to the heart.
Prevention of varicose veins
Though there is no guarantee of being able to prevent varicose veins completely, you can follow certain measures that will reduce the risk of developing varicose veins. And this includes;
- Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly to improve your blood circulation.
- Eating a high fiber diet can help to reduce inflammation and also help in strengthening the veins.
- Avoid wearing high heels as it can put added pressure on your feet, which can also contribute to varicose veins.
- Avoid sitting or standing for a prolonged period of time, and try to change the position regularly.
Treatment at Apollo Spectra
From performing different compression therapies to providing surgical treatments like laser surgery, endoscopic vein surgery, and more, we at Apollo Spectra ensure to give the best care to help you get rid of varicose veins.
- Sitting/ standing for prolonged periods of time
- Overweight obesity
- Family history
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Exercise
- Manage weight
- Choose proper footwear
- Avoid long periods of sitting or standing