Varicose veins are large veins that become twisted. The condition mostly affects the superficial veins of the legs, but any superficial vein can become varicose. Some people in Tinley Park with varicose veins do not get any symptoms, and only get treatment for cosmetic purposes. However, it is important to seek treatment for varicose veins because sometimes you may develop complications.
Varicose veins can also put you at risk of developing ulcers on your legs, especially at the ankles. The warning signs of an oncoming leg ulcer include discoloration of the overlying skin which then begins to erode, forming an ulcer. Another complication of varicose veins is the formation of blood clots which may be life-threatening at times. To avoid such complications, you can visit a Tinley Park, IL general surgeon for treatment. The doctor will then prescribe the best treatment that will work for you.
What Are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins?
The symptoms of varicose veins vary in severity in different people. Some of the mild symptoms of varicose veins include veins that have a blue or deep purple color, especially on your legs, and bulging of the veins to form cord-like structures.
Some of the disturbing symptoms of varicose veins include heaviness in your legs, muscle cramps, swelling of the legs, and itching of the skin that overlies these veins. Sometimes you may experience pain in your legs, which becomes worse when you sit or stand for a long duration.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Veins help to transport blood back to your heart. Because the blood is normally flowing against gravity, veins have special structures called valves that prevent blood from flowing back to the legs. These valves open as blood is passing and close when all the blood has passed. The return of blood to the heart is reinforced by the contraction of muscles of your legs, therefore if you develop muscle weakness after a disease, you may be at risk of varicose veins.
Varicose veins develop when the valves inside your veins become damaged. The valves get damaged after they get trauma or diseases. Some factors that trigger varicose veins, like aging, cause the valves to get wear and tear as you advance in age. The condition is more common in females than males because of the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy and menopause. Some people also have a family history of varicose veins, while others develop varicose veins because of obesity.
How Can You Prevent Varicose Veins?
There is no specific way to prevent varicose veins, but doing regular exercise helps to improve the return of blood to the heart. Managing your weight also helps to reduce the amount of pressure that you place on the veins in your legs. Other ways to prevent varicose veins include changing the position of your legs regularly, elevating your legs, and avoiding high heels.
In summary, varicose veins are veins that become large or twisted, especially at the legs. This condition presents with bulging veins that have a blue or deep purple color, heaviness in the legs, itchiness, and sometimes you may get pain after sitting or standing for prolonged durations. You can prevent varicose veins by doing regular exercise and managing your weight. If you are uncomfortable with the appearance of your legs, you can seek treatment from a specialist.
