Several reasons cause varicose veins. Prevalent risk factors include obesity and pregnancy. Some risk factors are more complex to manage than others. The bulges of varicose veins might raise a cosmetic concern and have uncomfortable symptoms. Some symptoms are pains and aches near the vein. Varicose veins affect other body parts like the vagina. Dr. Eugene Tanquilut in Tinley Park is experienced in all vascular issues, and you should feel free to contact him. Below we discuss all you should know about varicose veins.
Defining Varicose Veins
Varicose veins occur after the valves in your blood vessels become weak. This makes blood pool inside the vein, thus the discomfort. Blood heading to the heart flows against gravity, and the valves are responsible for directing blood back to the heart. Blood flows backward if the valves become weak, causing bumps.
What Causes Varicose Veins
Below are factors that trigger varicose veins;
- Age
Over 30% of adults experience varicose veins in their lifetime, but the risk increases with age. Your valves wear and tear with age, and this disrupts blood flow.
- Obesity
Obesity is linked with many diseases. You will put pressure on your body by being overweight, which harms veins. Obesity impacts your veins, but you will experience adverse symptoms if overweight.
- Pregnancy
Most women develop this condition during their pregnancy. Research has shown that a rise in hormone levels causes varicose veins. You are at a higher risk as a pregnant woman if your family has a history of this condition. Women with emotional shifts like menopause will experience these conditions because these hormones relax veins.
- Lifestyle Habits
Varicose veins are caused by standing or sitting for a long time. It would help if you considered the following things to have healthy veins;
- Do not cross your feet when sitting
- Take sitting breaks if you stand for long
- Set a reminder to take walks
- Prop your feet when watching TV
How to Shun Varicose Veins
It is hard to avoid varicose veins altogether, but you can try the following things;
- Avoid Standing or Sitting for Long
Your blood will have trouble traveling in the veins if you stand or sit for long periods. This increases pressure in your veins and can cause blood to pool in the ankles. You will lower venous pressure by moving around. You can also try the following exercises if you are in an office;
- Feet pedaling
- Stretching the ankles
- Knee bending.
- Use Compression Hosiery
Compression stockings keep the valves in their proper location, enhancing their function. These socks prevent pain and swelling, among others. Compression socks also lower night cramps when worn during the day. There are many compression levels, but they depend on your vein’s damage. It will help to consult a physician before you choose a compression option.
- Live a Healthy Life
Varicose veins occur due to unavoidable factors. This means you should have a healthy lifestyle to avoid them.
Varicose veins are common. Over thirty percent of adults have experienced it. It is not avoidable, but you can try the above tips to be safe. It will help to contact us concerning this condition to receive medical help. We are well-versed with a professional team to help you overcome this condition.
