All About Varicose Veins

When you think of varicose veins, perhaps you think of older women wearing support hosiery. While some female seniors do wear support hose because of varicose veins, there's more to the condition than just hosiery.

Varicose veins are enlarged veins close to the skin's surface. They are dark purple or blue in color and may look twisted and bulging like cords. Any vein can become varicose, but it usually happens to veins in the legs and feet. For some, they are merely a cosmetic concern. For others, they cause aches, pains and more serious problems like higher risk of circulatory disorders, according to various medical experts.

Some signs and symptoms of varicose veins include:

- enlarged veins that you can easily see under

your legs

- brown-gray discoloration of the skin,

especially around the ankle

- itching around one or more of your veins

- feelings in your legs such as soreness,

achiness, tiredness, tingling, burning,

heaviness, throbbing, muscle cramping and

swelling

age: Those who are ages 30 to 70 are most susceptible.

sex: Women are more likely than men to get them because of hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy and menopause.

Pregnant women may develop them because their blood flow is re-designed to support a growing fetus. The side effect is that blood flow from the legs to the pelvis decreased, producing enlarged veins in the legs.

genetics: You have a higher chance of getting them if other family members have had the condition as well.

obesity: Excess weight can put more pressure on your veins.

standing for long periods of time: It causes improper blood circulation.

Fortunately, there are numerous noninvasive ways to deal with varicose veins. You can ease pain and prevent varicose veins from worsening by wearing support stockings that provide relief. If you get them during pregnancy, they usually improve without treatment after your baby is born.

Your doctor can suggest more aggressive medical treatments if those mentioned don't work, such as laster therapy. Just be aware that some insurance policies may not cover the cost of elective surgery for varicose veins. Treatment may be covered, however, if the surgery is more health-related.

Improving circulation and muscle tone can reduce the risk of developing varicose veins now and in the future. Exercise can help increase your circulation. Watching your figure can prevent your legs from having to support extra weight. Avoid high heels and tight clothes that restrict circulation. Try not to sit, stand or cross your legs for long periods of time, all of which can prevent blood from flowing properly.