Varicose Veins: What Are They and What to Do About Them

Varicose veins are a common condition affecting anyone, young or old. In its most basic form, varicose veins occur when a person’s veins become enlarged and twisted. While they can occur anywhere on the body, they are most commonly found in the legs. For those who suffer from varicose veins, it’s important to understand why they happen and what steps you can take to treat them.

What Causes Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are caused by weakened valves in the vein walls that allow blood to pool in the vein instead of flowing smoothly back up toward the heart. This causes pressure on the vein walls, leading to them widening and twisting over time. Certain factors can increase your risk of developing varicose veins, including heredity, age, sex, pregnancy, obesity, and long periods of standing or sitting without movement.

What Are The Symptoms

Varicose veins can present themselves in a number of ways, with the most noticeable symptom being a discoloration of the skin around them. This typically manifests as a dark purple or blue shade that is easily visible. In more severe cases, the veins may appear lumpy or bulging, causing discomfort and potentially even pain or itching. Another common symptom of varicose veins is swelling in the legs, which can be exacerbated by standing for extended periods. Additionally, cramps and fatigue are common, making it crucial for anyone experiencing these symptoms to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible.

What to Do to Treat Them

Fortunately, there are many options available for treating varicose veins today. These range from simple lifestyle changes such as exercising more often and wearing compression stockings to medical treatments such as sclerotherapy and endovenous laser therapy (EVLT). However, if you suspect that you have varicose veins, it’s important to consult your doctor and a vein specialist before attempting any kind of treatment yourself.

Varicose veins can be an uncomfortable condition that affects many people worldwide, so understanding what they are and how they can be treated is key to managing them effectively. While specific lifestyle changes such as exercise may help reduce their visibility and discomfort, sometimes medical intervention is necessary to ensure proper treatment of this condition. If you think you might have varicose veins or could be at risk of developing them, it’s important to speak with your doctor about your symptoms so that they can recommend the best course of action for you going forward.

About the author:

Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max.

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