Varicose Vein Treatments
Many of us have varicose veins. In fact 50 percent of people have them and they occur more often in women than men. Varicose veins are gnarled, dilated, twisted veins that can appear blue, red or flesh-colored anywhere on the body. Sometimes they can become swollen and tender other times a person may not notice them at all.
Varicose veins commonly appear along the legs, often in the back of the calves or thighs. During pregnancy, varicose veins can also develop near the vagina or buttocks. Varicose veins are caused by weaknesses of the valves inside the veins. When our hearts beat, blood is brought back to the heart through our veins. However, if the valves have become damaged, the blood backs up and collects in the veins allowing them to bulge and distend.
Symptoms of varicose veins in the legs:
Achiness or cramping after sitting or standing for a prolonged period of time.
Swelling or feeling of heaviness
A rash or darkening of the skin
Restless feelings in the legs
Risk factors:
• Age: Varicose veins are more common after the age of 50.
• Medical/Family history: Half the people with varicose veins have a family member with them.
• Pregnancy: Blood volume increases greatly during pregnancy combined with pressure from the enlarging uterus, more pressure is placed on the valves inside the veins.
• Hormones: Changes in estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy, menopause or through birth control pills can contribute.
• Obesity and decreased activity can allow more blood to pool in veins.
Diagnosis and Treatments:
It is wise to have a doctor evaluate an area with varicose veins to determine your risk for problems with blood clots and decide the best treatment.
Wearing compression stockings are a simple way to increase the blood return from the legs and take the pressure off of those veins. They can be purchased over the counter and in some cases prescription hose may be needed if more pressure is needed.
Sclerotherapy is one of the most common treatments for varicose veins. The doctor injects a chemical in the veins that causes the vein to seal shut so no blood can flow through them.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a CommentComments
There are no comments yet. Be the first one and get the conversation started!