5 Facts You Need to Know About Varicose Veins
Enlarged veins that can be blue, red, or flesh-colored and that are visible from under the skin are called varicose veins. They appear twisted and bulging and often look like cords. Sometimes they are also swollen and raised above the surface of the skin. They are usually found on the thighs, backs of the calves, or the inside of the leg. In women, it becomes more pronounced during pregnancy and can form around the vagina and buttocks. Varicose veins are a little different from spider veins as they are a little bigger and are a little less closer to the surface of the skin. Varicose veins are usually caused by weak or damaged valves in the vein. A lot of people get scared when they see the appearance of varicose veins on their bodies. It is not dangerous every time, but it always helps to consult your doctor when they get too prominent. Here are some more facts to know about varicose veins.
1. The arteries carry the blood and the oxygen pumped by the heart throughout the body and the veins carry the blood back to the heart. As you work your muscles, the veins get squeezed and push blood to the heart against gravity. But veins have back up flaps that prevent blood from coming down again due to gravity. When these become weak, the bloods starts collecting and make the veins becomes bigger, thus giving you varicose veins.
2. The valves in your veins may weaken and not work as well as you advance in years. Family history of varicose veins and being born with varicose veins also exacerbates the problem and increases your risk. Hormonal changes in women during puberty, pregnancy and menopause also lead to the build up of varicose veins. Taking birth control pills and other medicines that have a high dose of estrogen and progesterone also cause varicose veins. A large amount of blood during pregnancy that the veins cannot handle, the pressure put on the veins by the uterus also cause varicose veins.
3. Being overweight is added pressure on your heart and also the veins. They can find it difficult to keep transferring the blood. Lack of movement and not getting enough physical exercise is also a cause. Varicose veins can also develop when you keep your legs in the same position for a very long time and do not move them at all. This is a possibility in extremely long flights.
