Every woman wants to have flawlessly smooth legs that she can proudly show off by wearing mini-skirts and shorts. On the contrary, not all women are blessed with such pleasant-looking legs. Among common reasons why having goddess-like legs may be next to impossible for many women is due to their varicose veins.
What are varicose veins?
According to statistics, around 25 percent of the US adults suffer from varicose veins. For starters, varicose veins are those swollen-looking veins that seem to be embossed on a person’s leg. It occurs when the blood flow in the veins are restricted, thus causing the vein valves to swell. Most varicose veins have a bluish appearance due to deoxygenated blood.
Apparently, standing and walking for long periods of time can increase the pressure in our lower body’s veins. That is why varicose veins commonly affect the veins in our legs and feet. While some do not feel any pain, some others experience pain and discomfort that can lead to serious complications if not treated immediately.
Causes and symptoms of varicose veins
As mentioned above, varicose veins occur due to standing or walking for long periods of time. Aside from that, there are other causes why varicose veins appear.
For one, older people are more prone to varicose veins because their veins lose elasticity as they age. As a result, blood flow is restricted and causes the veins to swell. In addition, women and obese people have higher risks of having varicose veins.
Pregnant women also tend to have varicose veins due to the decreased blood flow from the legs to the pelvis. While it helps support the baby in your womb, it can cause varicose veins as a side effect. It can even worsen during the final trimester.
Meanwhile, among common varicose vein symptoms include visible, embossed, and twisted-looking veins that are bluish or purple in appearance.
On the other hand, varicose veins can be painful. Among its symptoms include a feeling of heaviness, swelling, burning, and cramping in your legs; itchiness around the vein area; a more intense feeling of pain after sitting or standing for long periods of time; and even the occurrence of bleeding and discoloration on the veins and the area surrounding it.
Treatments for varicose veins
Treatment for varicose veins is unnecessary especially if does not cause discomfort or pain. However, because it can look unsightly, many people prefer getting treatments for aesthetical purposes.
On the other hand, treatment is necessary if there is pain involved. Moreover, some treatments are minimally-invasive. Among treatment options for painful varicose veins include:
- Laser treatment
- Sclerotherapy
- Radiofrequency ablation
As they say, “prevention is better than cure.” Varicose veins are inevitable, but following these tips can help avoid varicose vein symptoms.
- Improve blood circulation in your legs through exercise
- Monitor your weight by following a healthy lifestyle
- Avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time
- Take a break from wearing heels and tight clothing from time to time
- Reduce your salt intake and increase fiber in your diet
