Varicose veins symptoms & causes

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The symptoms

Visible changes in veins

Twisted or bulging veins

Heavy or achy legs

Burning, throbbing, or cramping

Swelling in the lower legs

Itching around the veins

Skin colour changes

When to see a doctor?

Consultation Is The Key

When should you be worried?

If you have varicose vein disease and have persistent pain, swelling or skin changes, such as darkening, it is a good idea to see a doctor to properly diagnose varicose veins. You should also get medical help if you develop ulcers or sores that aren’t healing, if your veins begin to bleed or if you’re having difficulty moving your legs. The sooner you can begin varicose vein treatment, the better. More serious complications may occur, so it’s a good idea to get examined, even if symptoms feel mild.

Advised treatments

Sclerotherapy

Skin Treatment

The causes

What causes varicose veins?

Varicose veins develop when the valves in your veins are weak or damaged. Typically, veins return blood to the heart. But the veins in your legs have to work against gravity to accomplish this, which can be challenging.

Here’s how it works:

The muscles in your legs tighten to assist pushing blood upward.
Valves in veins help return blood to the heart.
Little valves in the veins open to allow blood to flow up and close to prevent it from flowing back down.

If these valves are not functioning well, blood can begin to pool and flow backward, resulting in the veins stretching or twisting. This leads to varicose veins.

The risk factors

What puts you at higher risk of developing varicose veins?

Some people are more prone to varicose veins than others. Here are the reasons:

Family history: You might develop varicose veins if other people in your family have them.

Being overweight: Extra pounds puts additional strain on your leg veins.

Getting older: As you grow older, the valves in your veins can become weaker which makes it more difficult for blood to travel in the correct direction.

Being a woman: Hormonal fluctuations coming from periods, pregnancy or menopause can influence your veins. If someone is on birth control pills, that can also be a factor.

Pregnancy: Your body produces more blood to nourish your baby, and this can also stretch your leg veins.

Not moving enough: Spending too much time in a seated or standing position can impact blood circulation, which in turn can lead to varicose veins.

The complications

Hidden Dangers

Can that lead to serious health issues?

Leg swelling
The legs may swell from long-term varicose veins.
Skin ulcers
It causes painful sores around the ankles that start as a dark patch on the skin.
Bleeding veins
Rarely, a vein near the skin’s surface may break and bleed slightly.
Blood clots
If a deep vein becomes swollen and painful or swollen, that could indicate a clot.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
A potentially dangerous condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, most often in the legs.
Superficial vein thrombosis (SVT)
This condition usually occurs in the arms or legs, with inflammation, pain, redness and swelling.
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)
Common conditions such as varicose veins may lead to chronic venous insufficiency when the veins in the legs are damaged, these veins aren’t able to regulate blood flow as effectively as they should.

The prevention

Stay Active

Why is moving your body a good idea?

It is good to get your legs moving to keep the blood flowing. Common activities such as walking, gently stretching, or even standing up from time to time, can help to relieve some of the pressure on the veins, and promote their health.

What happens if you don’t move enough?

Blood can pool in your veins if you are sitting or standing too long. Over time, this may result in varicose veins. Do try to get up at least every hour, if only for a few minutes.

Keep A Healthy Weight

How does your weight affect your veins?

Carrying excess weight adds stress to your leg veins and makes it more difficult for blood to return to the heart. Being at a normal weight can help keep your veins healthy.

Small steps to get rid of extra weight

You don’t need a strict diet. Start walking each day, drinking more water, and eating healthy with fruits, vegetables and less sugar. Even slight adjustments can add up to be significant.

Wear Compression Stockings

Do these special socks actually help?

Yes. Compression stockings put light pressure on your legs and allow your veins to push blood upward. They are great if you are on your feet or seated a lot during the day.

When should you wear them?

Wear them during the morning or while working. They’re designed in various sizes and styles, so ask your doctor which may work best for you.

Elevate Your Legs

Why should you elevate your legs?

Elevating your legs above your heart facilitates better venous return and gives your veins a rest. It can also lessen swelling and fatigue in your legs.

How often should you do it?

Try to elevate your legs for 15 to 20 minutes, two to three times a day. Just use a pillow, or lie down with your feet up, it’s uncomplicated, and soothing.

Avoid Tight Clothing

How do tight clothes cause problems?

Tight clothing can constrict your waist or legs and prevent blood from flowing properly. It can create more pressure in your veins and can lead to varicose veins.

What clothes are better to wear?

Wear loose, comfortable clothing especially around your abdomen and thighs. They allow your blood to circulate freely while still allowing you to feel good and look nice.