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Varicose veins often signal aging, though various conditions can also lead to their development. Explore more images of skin issues.
iStockphoto/ThinkstockWhile unattractive, varicose veins are widespread. These twisted, enlarged blood vessels, visible beneath the skin, impact 50% of individuals aged 50 and above [source: National Institutes of Health]. Though they can cause leg discomfort, varicose veins are generally not harmful.
Varicose veins can develop anywhere but are most frequently seen on the feet and lower legs, especially the calf area [source: Mayo Clinic]. Regardless of their location, all varicose veins stem from a shared cause: the malfunction of small vein valves.
Typically, veins transport oxygen-poor blood from the body back to the heart, where it is then sent to the lungs for reoxygenation [source: Wilson]. Gravity complicates this journey, especially when blood must travel upward from the legs and feet. Thankfully, veins are equipped with one-way valves that ensure blood flows in the correct direction; these valves open to allow upward flow and close to prevent backflow.
When these valves fail to function properly, blood accumulates in the veins, causing them to enlarge. The veins not only look swollen but also develop a deep blue color. This bluish tint occurs because the veins are filled with deoxygenated blood that should have been recirculated through the lungs but remains trapped in the faulty varicose vein [source: Mayo Clinic].
Varicose veins become increasingly prevalent with age, primarily due to the gradual weakening of vein valves over time [source: National Heart Lung and Blood Institute]. Additionally, several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing varicose veins, which we will explore further on the next page.
What Causes Varicose Veins
If you are female, varicose veins may eventually become a concern. Hormonal fluctuations from puberty to menopause, as well as changes induced by birth control medications, can increase the likelihood of developing varicose veins in women [source: National Heart Lung and Blood Institute].
Pregnancy is a common time for varicose veins to develop. The growing fetus exerts pressure on the inferior vena cava, the large vein on the body's right side, which increases pressure on the leg veins. Additionally, blood volume doubles during pregnancy, forcing veins to work harder while progesterone relaxes vein walls [source: BabyCenter]. Excess weight adds further strain, making it harder for veins to return blood to the heart and leading to enlarged veins [source: National Heart Lung and Blood Institute].
If varicose veins run in your family, you’re likely to develop them too. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute reports that approximately half of those with varicose veins have a close family member with the same condition.
Preventing varicose veins is possible with a few lifestyle changes. Prolonged sitting or standing, such as sitting with crossed legs, can strain vein valves [source: National Heart Lung and Blood Institute]. To reduce this risk, move regularly throughout the day or elevate your feet when possible. Regular exercise, particularly activities that strengthen the legs, can also enhance circulation.
Diet plays a role in preventing varicose veins. A high-fiber, low-salt diet can reduce swelling and prevent constipation, both of which contribute to vein issues [source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services]. Straining during bowel movements increases abdominal pressure, stretching the valves in leg veins [source: McDougall].
For those serious about preventing varicose veins, compression stockings are an effective option. These stockings, tightest at the ankle and looser toward the waist, assist veins in pushing blood upward against gravity. For optimal results, wear them all day, starting in the morning before getting out of bed [source: BabyCenter]. While they may not be the most comfortable, they are preferable to dealing with varicose veins, especially those prone to bleeding. Next, explore more about complications associated with varicose veins.
While varicose veins are commonly associated with the lower legs or ankles, they can actually develop anywhere on the body. For instance, hemorrhoids, which are swollen and often painful veins around the anus, are a type of varicose vein [source: National Institutes of Health].
Bleeding Varicose Veins
Twisted, enlarged veins visible beneath the skin might make you hesitant to bare your legs, but this condition can sometimes pose more than just a cosmetic problem. In severe cases, varicose veins can become a significant health concern.
Mild symptoms of varicose veins include leg heaviness or discomfort. However, these symptoms can escalate to more serious issues, such as swelling, unexpected bleeding, or even ulcers.
Although rare, complications like a ruptured varicose vein can be life-threatening due to rapid blood loss. Because these veins protrude and lie close to the skin, they are more susceptible to injury from falls, bumps, or scrapes [source: eHealthMD]. Additionally, varicose veins tend to bleed more profusely than normal veins when injured, as blood flows through them under abnormally high pressure [source: eHealthMD].
If a varicose vein starts bleeding due to a scrape or cut, it’s essential to elevate the affected area and apply firm, steady pressure to stop the bleeding [source: Hejna]. Aging makes skin and tissue more fragile, increasing the risk of vein damage from minor injuries, particularly in elderly individuals [source: Byard].
Skin ulcers, particularly venous or stasis leg ulcers, can also cause varicose veins to rupture. These ulcers develop when leg veins fail to circulate blood effectively, leading to pooled blood, swelling, and oxygen-deprived tissues. While not life-threatening, these open sores often require medical intervention to heal properly [source: WebMD].
If these severe complications have you considering medical help, continue reading to explore the various treatments available for varicose veins.
While varicose veins are mostly a nuisance for many, a painful, swollen vein can sometimes indicate a serious issue like deep vein thrombosis. This condition arises when a blood clot forms in the deeper leg veins due to injury or prolonged inactivity, such as during a long car trip. The clot can travel to the lungs, causing a potentially fatal pulmonary embolism [source: Parks].
Varicose Vein Treatments
Preventive measures like wearing compression stockings or elevating the feet can also help manage mild varicose vein conditions [source: Mayo Clinic]. Additionally, several medical treatments are available, most of which are outpatient procedures requiring no hospital stay or extended time off work.
Many FDA-approved vein treatments can be performed in a doctor's office. These in-office procedures typically cost between $300 and $400 per session [source: The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery].
Despite marketing claims, varicose vein treatments do not guarantee permanent results. While advancements like laser therapy boast high success rates, they do not address the underlying issue of weak vein valves. As a result, new varicose veins may develop over time for those predisposed to the condition [source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services].
Sclerotherapy is a widely used non-surgical treatment where a solution is injected into the vein, causing it to swell, close, and eventually fade as it turns into scar tissue. This method is up to 90% effective in eliminating varicose veins, though stubborn veins may require multiple sessions. Potential side effects include bruising or swelling at the injection site [source: American Academy of Dermatologists, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, WebMD].
Other treatments involve using radiofrequency or laser energy to seal off varicose veins, a process known as endovenous ablation. These minimally invasive procedures require little recovery time and are considered more effective than surgical options like vein ligation and stripping, which involve making incisions, tying off the vein, and removing it [source: WebMD].
Curious about natural alternatives for treating varicose veins? Discover more on the next page.
Medical treatments for varicose veins do not disrupt blood flow, even when the affected vein is removed. This is because the body's vascular system is highly efficient, automatically redirecting blood to surrounding veins [source: American Academy of Dermatologists].
Natural Cures for Varicose Veins
While preventive measures can help avoid varicose veins, once they appear, medical intervention is necessary to eliminate them. Support stockings alone won't make these bulging veins vanish.
For those inclined toward natural remedies, consider aescin, an extract derived from horse-chestnuts. Aescin acts like a superfood for blood vessels, strengthening their walls and preventing bulging or twisting. It also helps reduce swelling commonly linked to varicose veins [source: Loecher].
Incorporating bioflavonoids into your diet is another option. When paired with vitamin C, bioflavonoids are thought to enhance each other's effects [source: Turner]. Dark-colored fruits such as blueberries and cherries are rich in bioflavonoids, which help fortify blood vessels. Bilberry, a close relative of the blueberry, can also be consumed or taken as an extract to aid in managing varicose veins [source: National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine]. Ginkgo biloba, derived from the ginkgo tree leaf, is another bioflavonoid source widely available in supermarkets and health stores [source: Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine].
Numerous over-the-counter creams claim to treat varicose veins. Many of these products contain natural ingredients like calendula extract or vitamin E, known for their anti-inflammatory properties. However, creams and dietary supplements cannot eliminate varicose veins [source: Hunter].
