Varicose Veins: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, & Prevention

Varicose veins affect most people. This is true, particularly as they grow older. These twisted and swollen veins might be more than just cosmetic concerns. They may also result in more serious health problems when left untreated.

What Varicose Veins Are

Varicose veins are often twisted and enlarged veins. They are mostly common in the legs.Usually, they are not regarded as serious medical conditions. However, they are uncomfortable. If they are not controlled, they may result in more serious issues. Since they can be noticeable, they might make people feel embarrassed or uncomfortable.

Symptoms/Signs

These signs include the following:

• Swelling: Your Feet, legs, and ankles may throb and swell.
• Heavy legs: Leg muscles might feel sluggish.
• Pain: Your legs can be sore or painful. This is true, especially behind the legs.
• Bulging veins: These rope-like, twisted, and swollen veins are usually purple. However, sometimes they can be blue.

Diagnosis

Are your veins healthy? If you are unsure and have noticed the above warning signs, visit a doctor to diagnose the condition.

The diagnosis may involve checking your legs as you stand. Your doctor will focus on things like swelling. The doctor can also prescribe medication for aching and pain in the legs.

Treatment

Those who are diagnosed with the problem may ask, “Can you tame these veins?” The good news is that treatments, such as laser therapy, provide reprieve by simply closing off those affected veins. Weighting the pros and cons of every treatment method will enable you to make a good decision alongside your medical doctor.

Prevention

It is now easier to prevent the occurrence of this condition than to treat it. This is why it is crucial to be familiar with ways of preventing it. Other than quitting to smoke, you also need to do the following:

1.   Watch Your Weight

If you are overweight, your veins in the legs will strain a lot. However, maintaining a healthy weight is the best thing you can ever do to prevent the condition from forming.

2.    Exercise

Ensure you exercise when you’re not at work. By exercising regularly, you will not just improve your blood circulation. You will also boost your heart health. Yoga and walking are among the best ways to improve blood circulation in the legs.

3.   Stay Well Hydrated

It is important to drink plenty of water daily. Most doctors advise that we take about 15.5 cups or 11.5 cups of fluids every day. If this seems too much, just take at least eight glasses every day.

4.   Change Your Sitting/Standing Position

Sitting and standing in the same position may put too much stress on the veins. Therefore, if you could, try to change your position to keep your blood flowing.

In conclusion, vein valves weaken over time. It is true that there is nothing you can do about your family history, age, or gender. However, you can take the right steps to prevent the condition. These steps don’t just include changing your sitting/standing position. They also include staying hydrated and exercising.