Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are elongated, dilated, twisted, superficial veins whose valves are congenitally absent, or have become incompetent. This condition occurs usually in the legs. The disease is signified by swollen or enlarged blood vessels caused by a weakening in the vein’s wall or valves. They are sometimes raised and often appear blue, swollen, and knotted. Varicose veins are abnormal, superficial veins that develop in the soft tissue beneath the skin. These veins are abnormal and do not transport blood back to the heart efficiently; therefore, they can be removed without causing problems and in fact improve the venous circulation. Advanced cases of varicose veins can be harmful to a patient's health because they may be associated with the development of venous stasis ulcers, phlebitis, or thromboses.

• Discoloration of the tissues
• Tiredness in the legs 
• Heaviness and aching 
• Itching of the skin over the veins
• Muscular cramps 
• Swelling in the limbs

• Maintain your ideal body weight to reduce excess pressure on your legs. 
• Avoid prolonged sitting and standing. 
• Exercise daily.
• Elevate your feet and legs whenever possible. Sleeping with feet raised slightly above the level of the heart helps the blood flow away from ankles.
• Mobility helps general circulation. Walking is beneficial as the movements of leg muscles help push the blood upwards. Swimming or walking in deep water does much the same thing.
• Avoid clothing that restricts blood flow, especially if it constricts the waist area, and avoid use of high heels, which stops normal muscle contraction in the lower leg, affecting circulation. 
• Pregnant women should wear elastic stockings and lie down occasionally during the day. Getting up soon after delivery is also helpful in blood circulation.

The exact cause of varicose veins is unknown, although heredity, pregnancy, and hormonal changes are believed to be contributing factors. A varicose condition of the veins can result from sluggish circulation. Constipation, dietetic errors, lack of exercise, smoking, standing for long periods and wearing tight clothing can also lead to sluggish circulation. People who are involved with prolonged sitting or standing in their daily activities have an increased risk of developing this disease. Age can also be a factor, as the aging process leads to degenerative changes in the supporting connective tissue, compounded by decreased muscular activity. Pregnancy may cause varicose veins due to increased pressure in the pelvis and abdomen, which slows down the flow of blood from the lower extremities to the heart. Women usually suffer from this condition in the early years of childbearing. Two different effects occur during pregnancy. First, the enlarged uterus tends to compress or obstruct veins in the pelvic area. This causes the veins in the leg to become distended and noticeable. Second, hormonal changes during pregnancy can also affect the vein wall causing distention and valve damage. Obesity can also cause the disease. There is a significant relationship between heredity and the development of the disease. If any one of the parents has varicose veins, there is likelihood that the offspring will also develop these abnormal veins. Excessive weight (more than 20% above normal bodyweight) and inadequate exercise are also the possible causes.

Dermatological surgeons have extensive training and experience in the diagnosis and treatment of vein disorders. Examination is sufficient to confirm the diagnosis. No testing is required.

• Emphasize on a diet high in fiber and rich in legumes, fresh fruits, vegetables and grains
• Take lots of blueberries and citrus fruits
• Eat plenty of fish and fiber
• Avoid fatty foods and carbohydrates
• Do not eat margarine, animal fats, red meat, ice cream, pastries or other rich foods
• Decrease your salt intake as it can cause swelling in people who are salt sensitive.

• Exercise regularly to improve circulation. Walking every day for 15-20 minutes would be excellent
• Elevate your legs several times a day to promote better blood flow
• Raise the foot of your bed several inches above the head to facilitate better blood flow. This should not be done if you have breathing difficulties and a history of heart trouble
• Taking aspirin everyday can help alleviate discomfort and promote blood flow to the legs. This option should be discussed with a doctor
• Wear support hose, specially fitted to each individual. It should be put on first thing in the morning
• Daily sitz baths can help ease the discomfort
• If a varicose vein is cut, the leg should be elevated immediately. If the bleeding does not stop, medical attention becomes a necessity
• Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time
• Avoid putting unnecessary stress or weight on the legs by crossing them or lifting heavy objects

• Not only do tight clothing (like jeans, knee socks, snug-fitting boots or waist cinching belts) contribute to the formation of varicose veins, they also add to mental stress and should therefore be avoided
• When elevating legs to increase blood flow, try to meditate, pray or just relax and unwind.