A varicose vein is a cosmetic problem that causes the vein, especially of the leg to become enlarged and irregular. This occurs in the superficial veins near the surface of the skin which are the unsightly dark lumps and bumps. Women are more prone to varicose veins than men. There are a number of factors that may develop varicose veins. Long-standing hours during pregnancy, genetic reasons, and being overweight may be one of the Varicose Veins Causes. They usually aren’t serious, but they can sometimes lead to other problems.
Our veins have a series of valves that act as a one-way door that prevent the blood from responding to gravity and flowing back towards the ground to pool in our lower extremities. When varicose veins valves fail or do not close completely thus allowing blood to flow back and causing the vein walls to be stretched out of shape. The superficial vein valves of the lower limb are most affected due to the gravitational pressure exerted when standing leading to swelling of the lower limbs, thickening of the skin, vein eczema, and ulceration. This is also one of the varicose veins causes.
How to prevent varicose veins
Exercising: Regular exercising will strengthen the leg muscles allow increase blood circulation pressure thus enabling the valve to open and close completely.
Following a sensible diet: Eating food that has high fiber content and drinking a lot of water reduces constipation and increases peristalsis in the intestines. There is less or no obstruction of blood flow up the leg thus ensuring the veins are strong. A diet that is rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin E goes a long way towards preventing varicose veins. Eat fruits and vegetables that are a rich source of bioflavonoid and vitamin C and watch your salt intake. These flavonoids are found in berries, grapes, buckwheat, and pine buck. They help in improving the vascular system to function well and also promote the healing of varicose veins.
Do not wear tight clothes on the waist: Tight cloths exert pressure thus preventing proper circulation of blood in the legs.
Keep your weight in the limit: It is also very important to keep your weight down as extra body fat puts too much pressure on the legs and can cause varicose veins to appear.
Do not stand for too long: Move around to flex the muscle. Contracting and expanding of the leg muscle help in the pumping of the blood. Also, do not sit for too long because bent knee and hips complicate and reduce the blood to the heart from legs. Stand and move around, stretch the muscles will help to relieve varicose veins.
