Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are enlarged and distended veins that occur most often in the legs and pelvis. Veins are structurally similar to arteries (vessels that carry blood away from the heart to the tissues) but their outer layer is thicker, their middle layer is thinner and the inner layer of covering is extremely thin and may fold inward to form valves. By the time blood moves into veins, it has lost a great deal of pressure. When a person stands, the pressure pushing blood up the veins in the lower extremities is barely enough to balance the force of gravity pushing it back down. This is why many veins have valves that prevent backflow. In people with weak venous valves, gravity forces blood back down into the vein, resulting in varicose veins.

Possible Causes of Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are caused when the valves in the veins become damaged, causing blood to pool and enlarge the veins. Varicose veins can be hereditary or they can be caused by prolonged standing, sitting, sitting cross-legged, lack of exercise, heavy lifting, obesity, aging and pregnancy.

Possible Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Symptoms of varicose veins include bluish veins that are visible through the skin; aching in the legs and areas where veins are prominent; swelling, sores, cramps and a feeling of heaviness in the legs; and rashes and discoloration.

Possible Lifestyle Changes for Varicose Veins
Often times, varicose veins cannot be prevented, especially if they are hereditary, but there are steps a person can take to avoid developing varicose veins. Maintain a healthy weight, do not wear socks with tight elastic around the calves, do not stand for extended lengths of time on a regular basis and rest with the legs elevated whenever possible.