Many adults have
these noticeable protrusions on the back of their legs, especially around the
calf area. These are actually veins that are visible under the skin’s surface,
and they are known as varicose veins. Basically, it is a type of medical
condition that pertains to the veins becoming swollen and twisted as a result
of numerous factors. Apparent in most adults, they don’t just occur on the
legs, but also in the other parts of the body. Varicose veins can easily get
rid of through varying levels of treatment, from lifestyle changes to medical
procedures such as surgery.
The
anatomy of varicose veins
This condition
occurs as a result of damaged or weakened valves of the veins. Basically, the
blood, after carrying oxygen-rich blood throughout the body’s tissues, goes
through the veins in a one-way trip towards the heart. Inside the veins are
valves that open to let blood in and then close to prevent backflow. Varicose
veins happen if the valves inside become damaged due to the weakening of vein
walls. The walls, known to be elastic at a certain rate, may be overstretched,
causing them to expand. The vein valves’ flaps then becomes deformed, which
then allows the blood that is supposed to go one way to flow back and pool.
Risk
factors
The likelihood
of having such a condition on the leg or any other part of the body greatly
increases due to numerous risk factors. The most common is lack of movement,
particularly prolonged sitting or standing. Being in that position for long
hours may cause the veins on the legs to pump blood towards the heart, which
could then heighten the risk of forming varicose veins. Also, health factors
such as pregnancy and being obese can put one at risk of suffering this
condition. Due to the growing fetus on the uterus for pregnant women and the
extra body fat for obese individuals, their veins are subjected to extra
pressure, which could later on lead to varicose veins.
In terms of gender,
it is more likely for women to suffer from this condition than men. This is due
to the changes in the female hormones in the various parts of their lives, from
adolescence to the time they reached the menopausal stage. Old age is also a
factor, wherein the veins’ walls are subjected to wear and tear as a result of
aging. Even family history can also increase the likelihood of varicose veins.
Treatment
options
Typical
complaints of those with varicose veins include having itchy legs, especially
on the calf area and the ankle, as well as swelling and changes in the skin
such as discoloration and/or scaling. When any or a combination of these
symptoms occur, it is imperative for an individual with varicose veins to seek
a doctor. That way, he or she may undergo test to help determine the type of
treatment he or she may receive. Indeed, there are options fortreatmentoffered
by most vein clinics.
If there are no
underlying complications in connection with the medical condition, then he or
she may be asked to undergo lifestyle changes. This is obviously the choice
given for those whose work involves prolonged sitting or standing, as well as
for those who are overweight or obese. Examples of lifestyle changes include long-term
commitment to exercise in order to lose weight. Also, wearing clothes that are
not too tight but not too loose and avoiding wearing high heels for long hours
help improve blood circulation.
Medical
procedures may also be an option for a person with varicose veins. You may want
to consult with a vein clinic first before proceeding. For the most part,
performing surgery and other non-invasive procedures are done to either remove
or close the damaged veins in an effort to improve the appearance of the
affected area.
