Varicose Veins

Varicose Veins: Varicose veins are enlarged twisted veins that typically appear in the legs & feet. They occur when the valves in the veins become weak or damaged. These weak & damaged valves lead to blood pooling in the veins which causes the veins to enlarge, swell & stretch. Although varicose veins are not dangerous for most people, if left untreated, some people may experience serious health risks.

Untreated Varicose Veins: If left untreated, varicose veins can pose several health risks & complications. 1) Pain, discomfort, aching, throbbing, heaviness, lower leg swelling; 2) Skin changes (e.g., discoloration, itchiness, dryness, thinner skin); 3) Leg ulcers/wounds (e.g., slow healing/prone to infections); 4) Bleeding (e.g., spontaneous or from minor injuries); 5) Blood clots (e.g., redness, pain, swelling, superficial venous thrombosis & life-threatening conditions such as Deep Vein Thrombosis or Pulmonary Embolism); 6) Lipodermatosclerosis (e.g., inflamed fat cells, skin discoloration); 7) Varicose Eczema (e.g., rough inflamed discolored skin); 8) Restless Leg Syndrome. Early healthcare interventions & treatments are the best way to avoid complications.

Varicose Vein Causes: Several factors contribute to the development of varicose veins. 1) Lack of Physical Activity (e.g., prolonged sitting &/or standing); 2) Overweight/Obesity; 3) Genetics/Family History; 4) Hormonal Changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause, birth control pills); 5) Infection or Injury to Veins; 6) Tobacco Use; 7) Aging. Early interventions & attention to vein health can prevent the development of varicose veins.

Vein Health: Improving blood circulation & pressure helps our veins to stay healthy. 1) Regular Exercise including leg strength & flexibility; 2) Healthy Body Weight; 3) Elevate Legs when Resting; 4) Avoid Prolonged Standing/Sitting; 5) Wear Compression Stockings for those lifestyles that require long periods of standing/sitting; 6) Healthy Nutrition (e.g., high fiber, low salt); 7) Hydration for easier blood flow; 8) Limit High Heels to improve calf muscle strength; 9) Heightened Attention to Vein Health during Hormonal Changes & during the Aging process; 10) Avoid Restrictive/ Tight-Fitting Clothing. Taking these preventative actions will help your veins stay healthy for a long time.

Varicose Vein Treatment: Although varicose veins cannot be cured or healed, there are several ways to treat them. Depending on the severity, different approaches may be recommended with each having their own level of complications & side effects. 1) Leg Elevation; 2) Supportive/Compression Stockings; 3) Injection Therapy (Sclerotherapy); 4) Laser Therapy; 5) Vein Surgery (e.g., Ligation & Stripping). Discuss each option with your healthcare provide & learn the pros & cons of each treatment option.