What is it?
In order for veins to return blood back to your heart efficiently, they have one-way valves to prevent blood from flowing backwards due to gravity. If the valves do not close properly, the blood will pool in that area of the vein.
This abnormal collection of blood will push the vein walls outward, causing the vein to enlarge and bulge.
Tens of millions of people suffer from varicose veins. Heredity is the most common cause of the development of these veins. Women are also almost twice as likely to have varicose veins. However, men are also affected.
Varicose veins are not only cosmetic concerns for patients, but they also sometimes can cause legs to ache or swell. Your legs may feel tired or heavy and even have a burning sensation as the day goes on. In more severe cases, varicose veins may cause the skin to change, resulting in eczema, ulceration or bleeding, and /or pigmentation changes.
Symptoms
Early symptoms include:
- Pain in legs with a feeling of tiredness and heaviness
- Swelling of the ankles or lower legs
- Discolored, brownish skin near the ankle
- A rash or skin ulceration at the ankle or lower leg
- Visible enlarged veins
- Knotted, twisted veins tending to be deep bluish in color
- Skin surrounding the varicose vein may itch or burn
Contributing Factors
Many factors can lead to the development of varicose veins. Some can be controlled, while others are unavoidable. The good news is that varicose veins can be treated with minimal discomfort and virtually no down-time. Here are some of the leading causes of varicose veins.
- Heredity - Varicose veins tend to run in families.
- Age - As we age, elastic fibers in all tissues deteriorate, leading to dilated and tortuous blood vessels.
- Obesity - Excess weight increases the pressure on the vein valves and can lead to weakening.
- Hormones - Changes in hormone levels brought on by puberty, pregnancy, menopause hormone replacement therapy and birth control pills all contribute.
- Pregnancy - Increased volume of blood in the body and increased pressures on the pelvic veins are all contributors.
- Gender - Women have an increased incidence of varicose veins, primarily due to the production of progesterone, a female hormone.
- Occupation - Prolonged sitting or standing during the job can lead to venous insufficiency.
- Lifestyle - body building or heavy weight lifting may increase the chance of developing varicose veins due to strain on the groin and pelvis.
Before and After Photos
