Preventing Varicose Veins Through Lifestyle Changes

May 20, 2016 by admin

If you were wondering what the large, twisted veins that are visible on the legs are called you should learn that they are varicose veins. Sometimes, they get swollen and protrude through the skin. Similar to these, but not as large, are spider veins, which appear as a spider web on the surface of the skin.

Varicose veins are formed due to malfunctioning valves. The blood flow is normally directed by the valves around the body through veins, towards the heart. When blood flows through the legs, it has to defy gravity, by moving upwards. This is normally not a difficult job, except for when the valves fail to function properly, and the blood goes back down, enlarging the veins and, therefore, causing varicosities. This is also the cause for spider veins, along with hormonal imbalance, staying too long under the sun or after lesions.

Varicose veins are quite common, almost 50 percent of individuals over 50 suffer from this problem. The risk increases in people with a family history of this condition or those who have congenital damaged valves. Moreover, pills that include estrogen and progesterone, such as birth control pills, are another cause for varicosities. Varicose veins are likely to be formed in people who are overweight or in pregnant women, because of the large amount of pressure on the legs.

This condition is spotted easily on the surface of the skin, along with other symptoms, such as pain and swelling. Although they are not dangerous, some people may experience complications, such as vein ulcers, bleeding or thrombosis. If you find that your veins are swollen and tender, or you have a rash or your skin has a different color, you should consult with your doctor. A physician can easily identify the type of condition that you have by simply examining your legs.

Usually, the treatment for varicose veins is making a few healthy lifestyle changes, of course, if your condition is not severe. Nonetheless, there are other treatments that your doctor might recommend. One of the most common forms of treatment is wearing a certain type of stockings that compress your legs and veins. Another one is performed by a doctor and involves the injection of a particular chemical in the blood vessels, which blocks the vein and transforms it into a scar, which eventually fades. However, a single treatment may not be enough for a vein, and it is possible that you have to do this every 5 weeks. Side effects include irritation and inflammation of the vein. Varicose veins can also be treated with laser based technology, which is really effective. Surgery is also a form of cure, although side effects include scars, inflammation, blood clots and other health risks due to anesthesia.

The good news is that it is easy to prevent varicose veins by making a few lifestyle changes. You should always remember to apply sunscreen each time you stay in the sun. Watch your weight and exercise as much as you can, in order to improve your blood flow. This can also be achieved by taking walks or running. Also, try not to stay in the same position for a long time, such as standing, sitting or keeping your legs crossed. Take breaks often and keep your legs up for a couple of minutes. Another lifestyle change that you can make is not to wear tight clothes and high heels. Also, avoid eating too salty. However, there is no cure for varicose veins, as they might appear over the years despite any treatment.