What are Varicose Veins?

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are large veins swollen veins that are often seen on the legs and feet. It happens when the valves in the veins do not work properly, so the blood does not run efficiently. In varicose veins, varicosities are the twisted or enlarged parts of the vein. The veins can form anywhere in the body, but are often located on the legs. Varicose veins are usually inherited and worsen as people age.

Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins may not cause pain. The signs that you may have varicose veins include:

• Dark purple or blue veins
• Veins that appear twisted and curved; they are often like ropes on your feet.
• A painful or heavy sensation in the legs
• Burns, pulse, muscle cramps and swelling of the lower legs
• Pain worsened after sitting or standing for a long time
• Itching around one or more veins
• Discoloration of the skin around a varicose vein

Causes of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins appear when the veins are not functioning properly. The veins have unidirectional valves that prevent blood from flowing backwards. When these valves fail, the blood starts to squeeze into the veins, rather than continuing into your heart. The veins then widen. Varicose veins often affect the legs. The veins there are the furthest from your heart and gravity hinders the upward circulation of blood.

Some potential causes of varicose veins include:

• Pregnancy
• Menopause
• Over 50 years
• Standing for a long time
• Obesity
• Family history of varicose veins

Complications of Varicose Veins

In most cases, varicose veins have no complications. If complications occur, these may include:

• Bleeding.
• Thrombophlebitis: blood clots in the vein of the foot cause inflammation of the vein.
• Painful ulcers can form on the skin near the varicose veins, especially near the ankles. A discolored defect on the skin usually begins before the formation of an ulcer. Consult your doctor immediately if you suspect you have developed an ulcer.

Home Remedies to Prevent Varicose Veins

Measures can be taken at home to improve pain and prevent worsening of varicose veins. These include

• Exercise
• Lose weight
• Raising your legs
• Avoiding standing for long time
• Wear compression stockings
• Eat a diet high in fiber
• Avoid high heels