3 Facts You Should Know About Varicose Veins
Veins are an imperative part of your body's circulatory system. Unfortunately, constant pressure and stress can affect your veins in a negative way. Known as varicose veins, these enlarged and often visible veins can affect different parts of the body. They are most common in the legs because of the increased pressure felt on the veins when walking and standing. Although common, most people are not familiar with varicose veins and how to treat them. Here are a few important things you should know about these unsightly veins.
Causes and Risk Factors Vary
Most people are surprised to see they have developed varicose veins. However, the cause should not be so surprising.
Gravity is the main cause of varicose veins, because your veins have to work against the natural gravity pull. By working against gravity, the veins experience more pressure and stress, resulting in them becoming enlarged and visible through the skin.
Certain factors include your risk of developing varicose veins. If you are overweight, more pressure is placed on the veins, causing the veins to enlarge.
Age and a family history of varicose veins may also be a risk factor. Finally, if you live a sedentary lifestyle, your veins may experience more stress when you do move and place pressure on the legs and feet.
Spider Veins are Different from Varicose Veins
You may be surprised to learn that spider and varicose veins are two completely different issues.
While varicose veins are caused by gravity, age, and pressure on the veins, spider veins are linked to the backup of blood caused by hormonal changes, injuries, and even excessive exposure to the sun.
Varicose veins also look different than spider veins.
In most cases, varicose veins are red, blue, or flesh colored. They may appear to look like twisted ropes and cords that bulge out of the skin.
As the name suggests, spider veins look more like spider webs. They may be red or blue in color.
Treatment Is Possible
Most people do not even consider treatment for their varicose veins because they may be just cosmetic problems. On the other hand, these veins are unappealing, so they may affect your self-esteem. In addition, some individuals experience pain and discomfort because of their varicose veins, making treatment rather important.
Laser technology is an option that is capable of collapsing the vein. This innovative procedure may cause a small amount of pain initially, but it does not last, subsiding rather quickly. Sclerotherapy is also an option to consider if you have varicose veins. This treatment involves blocking off the veins by closing the walls with an injection of special medication.
Speak to a vein therapy expert to learn more about treatment.