The function of veins is to return the deoxygenated blood from the parts of our body to our heart. When these veins become enlarged, swollen and twisted, this abnormality in the structure of the veins is referred to as varicosities or varicose veins. These veins appear as protruding and enlarged lines on the skin. The color of the veins changes to blue or bluish-purple. Though such veins could appear anywhere in the body, these can mostly be found in legs. Spider veins is another similar medical condition in which the smaller veins appear very close to the surface of the skin. These could also appear on the face. Let's find out more about the varicose veins causes, symptoms and treatment.
Varicose Veins Symptoms
Varicosities are easily identifiable due to their color and twisted structure. You might experience tenderness and swelling around these bluish veins bulging from under the skin. Generally thighs and legs are affected the most by this condition. Those who suffer from swollen or twisted veins in legs, generally suffer from a lot of discomfort after standing for long stretches of time. The affected individuals experience a heavy aching sensation in their legs. Since the veins look like contorted cords under the skin, it can also emerge as a cosmetic problem for some. Besides varicose vein pain, swelling, tingling, throbbing, fatigue and muscle cramps are other symptoms associated with this medical condition. Sometimes, there could also be blood clotting in these superficial veins. In case of women, the symptoms may aggravate during menstruation.
Causes
Varicosities occur due to the breakdown of the valve system in the veins. Blood is pumped from our heart to the legs through arteries. After the oxygenated blood and nutrients have been supplied to the legs, blood must return to the heart through the veins. Blood in the veins has to flow upwards, against gravity. Under normal circumstances, the muscles in your legs facilitate the flow of blood and the valves help in preventing the blood from flowing back down into the veins. When the valves in the veins are unable to perform their function, blood is unable to flow to the heart. Due to this venous insufficiency, this blood leaks and gets accumulated and puts pressure on the veins. As a result, the veins becomes swollen, enlarged and twisted. Aging or hormonal imbalances could also be responsible for the breakdown of the valve system. It could also be genetic, therefore, if any of your family member is suffering from this condition, you might be at a risk. Women who are pregnant or overweight are at an increased risk of developing this condition.
Treatment
Most people suffering from this medical condition experience severe pain and heaviness in their feet after prolonged hours of standing. Besides the appearance of protruding bluish veins on the skin, one is likely to experience restlessness, throbbing, swelling and sometimes, painful leg cramps. Since obesity increases the risk, those who are overweight must try to lose weight. You must not wear very tight clothes because that can have an adverse effect on the blood circulation. It is advisable to avoid sitting in one position or standing for long stretches of time. Keeping your legs elevated while resting would also help. Wearing compression stockings is a good non-surgical method for varicose vein pain relief. For those who don't wish to undergo surgical treatment, compression stockings emerge as a viable option. Give up your sedentary lifestyle. Go for walks and do some stretching exercises. This will allow the muscles to pump the blood out of the veins. Besides these self-care tips, you could also go for sclerotherapy or laser surgery to make the affected veins look less prominent. If this condition is causing you a great deal of discomfort, you could consult a doctor regarding surgical options. Radio-frequency ablations, endovenous laser therapy and vein litigation are some methods that can be used to treat this condition.
If the protruded veins are not accompanied by pain and discomfort, it's better to avoid the surgical methods. Keep yourself active and take a healthy diet. If you are in a lot of pain, consult a doctor soon.
