What are Varicose Veins?

There are two types of leg veins, varicose veins or what are called spider veins.  Both conditions are common among women especially the older generation.

Veins regulate the blood flow back to the heart, preventing it from running the wrong way. Sometimes veins weaken and blood can make its way back into the vein, pool and clot. This causes the vein to swell and become visible on the outside of the skin.

Symptoms of Varicose Veins:

Varicose Veins are:

• Dark in appearance
• Can appear large and swollen
• Will rise above the skin
• Often located on the calf and the inside of the leg

Cause of Varicose Veins:

Varicose veins can occur for a number of reasons:

• Hereditary
• Over exposure to the sun
• Pregnancy
• Weight Gain
• Medications
• Birth control Pill
• Prolonged standing
• Trauma to the skin

Relief and Prevention of Varicose Veins:

Relief of leg veins:

• Compression using support hosiery
•  Treatments such as injections, laser surgery

Prevention of leg veins:

• Protect skin from the sun
• Exercise
• Don’t cross the leg
• Eat enough fibre