Twisted and enlarged veins near the upper most layer of the skin are known as varicose veins. The most common body parts where they can be seen are legs and ankles. Usually these veins do not cause any problems but, for some people they can prove to be really troublesome.
What Causes the Trouble?
Varicose veins usually develop as a result of weaking of valves and veins in the leg. The one-way valves present in your legs make the blood flow from your legs to the heart. However, when these valves stop functioning properly, the free flow of blood stops and it collects in your legs. This creates a lot of pressure and the veins become weak, large, and twisted.
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Risk Factors
Varicose veins are genetic and the trouble keeps passing on to generations. Apart from this, varicose veins also occur as a result of ageing. Other factors that may cause weakening in the veins include:
- Being overweight
- Pregnancy
- Long standing hours
What are its Symptoms?
Varicose veins look dark blue in colour, swollen, and twisted below the surface of your skin. Not all people who have varicose veins may suffer from the symptoms but, those who do might feel:
- A burning sensation, heaviness, ache, and tiredness in your legs. These symptoms may worsen when you spend long hours standing or sitting.
- Swollen feet and ankles.
- Itchy veins.
- Swelling in the legs.
- Pain in calf muscles along with swelling after spending long hours standing or sitting.
- Change in skin colour
- Dryness or thinning of the skin
- Inflammation on skin
- Scaling
How to Prevent Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins may be prevented in the following ways:
Exercise
When you introduce regular running and jogging into your routine, the circulation of blood in your legs becomes smooth. This prevents varicose veins from developing or worsening.
Don’t Stand or Sit for Long Hours
When you sit or stand for long hours, it creates pressure on the veins of your legs. This makes the blood vessels to become weak. If your work requires long hours of standing or sitting in one position, make some time to rest or change the position.
Sit in Right Posture
Keep your back straight, sit up and don’t cross your legs. When you cross your legs, the circulation of blood to and from your legs gets hindered.
Reduce Weight
When you have excess weight on your body, your legs will have to bear maximum pressure. Have a healthy weight to reduce the effect of varicose veins.
Varicose veins can be easily prevented. All you have to do is recognize the symptoms and follow a healthy lifestyle.
Image courtesy: Getty Images
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