Varicose Veins
What is Varicose Veins
Varicose Veins are veins that have become enlarged and twisted. The term commonly refers to the veins on the leg, although Varicose Veins occur elsewhere. Veins have leaflet valves to prevent blood from flowing backwards. Leg muscles pump the veins to return blood to the heart. When veins become enlarged, the leaflets of the valves no longer meet properly, and the valves don't work. A common cause of valve failure is Deep Vein Thrombosis, which can cause permanent damage to the valves. The blood collects in the veins and they enlarge even more. Varicose Veins are common in the superficial veins of the legs, which are subject to high pressure when standing. Besides cosmetic problems, varicose veins are often painful, especially when standing or walking. They often itch, and scratching them can cause ulcers. Serious complications are rare.
What are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Varicose Veins are usually fairly obvious and bulge out from under your skin. They usually affect your legs. Varicose veins can be superficial or deep. Superficial veins are visible and swollen (usually dark blue). They are painful and can affect your circulation but usually harmless.
What are the Causes of Varicose Veins
People who suffer from Varicose Veins are thought to have defective valves in the leg. This is a result of too much blood pressure which makes the veins swell. The swollen veins then cause the valves not to seal properly. We rely on the valves to circulate the blood to the heart properly. If they do not function properly, the blood can’t keep flowing and starts to pool in the vein causing the swollen veins that are part of this condition.
Some of the main factors contributing to Varicose Veins are: Obesity, Pregnancy & some Injuries.
Traditional Medical Treatments for Varicose Veins
If you have a less severe case you do not need to see your doctor and can treat the condition at home. Support pantihose are usually very helpful and you should leave them on all day. They will support the veins in your legs.
Your doctor may suggest taking a pain killer for the pain of Varicose Veins. If you notice no signs of having this condition but still have the pain associated with it: Call your GP immediately.
There are numerous options available for this condition: ask your GP to tell you about them.
Complementaty/Alternative Treatments for Varicose Veins
Natural therapies can help your system cope with Varicose Veins and also prevent more from occurring.
Aromatherapy: Oil of rosemary massaged gently into an affected area may help stimulate circulation by causing capillaries to dilate.
Oils of cypress (3 drops), sandalwood (3 drops) , peppermint (1 drop) and chamomile (1 drop) may soothe swelling and inflammation and help relieve pain - use a base carrier oil of calendula (5 teaspoons).
Certain people should not use particular essential oils.
Massage : Regular massage from a trained massage therapist can significantly alleviate discomfort associated with Varicose Veins.
Herbal Therapies: Many herbs have been beneficial in the treatment of Varicose Veins, and some have undergone extensive scientific study. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata), and bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) are all reported to strengthen blood vessels and improve peripheral circulation.
For skin irritation linked with Varicose Veins, try a lotion made of distilled witch hazel.
To separate the build-up of protein called fibrin that makes skin near Varicose Veins hard and lumpy, try eating more cayenne (Capsicum frutescens), garlic (Allium sativum), onion, ginger (Zingiber officinale), and pineapple, which contains bromelain, an enzyme that promotes break up of fibrin.
Homoeopathy: Homoeopath remedies are often used to treat Varicose Veins. Pulsatilla is one remedy that is commonly prescribed.