What are varicose veins?Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins. Varicose veins can happen anywhere in the body, but are more common in the legs. Show
Varicose veins are not considered a serious medical condition. But, they can be uncomfortable and can lead to more serious problems. And, because they may be very noticeable, they may cause people to feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. What are spider veins?Spider veins, a milder type of varicose veins, are smaller than varicose veins and often look like a sunburst or "spider web." They are red or blue in color and are commonly found on the face and legs, just under the skin. What causes varicose veins?Varicose veins are caused by increased blood pressure in the veins. Varicose veins happen in the veins near the surface of the skin (superficial). The blood moves towards the heart by one-way valves in the veins. When the valves become weakened or damaged, blood can collect in the veins. This causes the veins to become enlarged. Sitting or standing for long periods can cause blood to pool in the leg veins, increasing the pressure within the veins. The veins can stretch from the increased pressure. This may weaken the walls of the veins and damage the valves. What are the risk factors for varicose veins?Varicose veins may be more common in some families (inherited). Increased pressure in the veins may cause varicose veins. Factors that may increase pressure include:
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition with blood clots in the deep veins. This condition does not usually happen with varicose veins. That is because varicose veins affect the veins close to the surface of the skin. However, with severe varicose veins, there is a small chance of developing blood clots in the deep veins. Blood clots need medical care right away. Symptoms of blood clots include pain, swelling, and redness of the leg. Blood clots may also happen in the arms or other parts of the body. If you have symptoms that may mean a blood clot, call your healthcare provider. A piece of a blood clot may break off and travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism). A blood clot in the lungs is very serious and may cause death. Symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, coughing (may cough up blood), a fast heartbeat, sweating, and fainting. If you have symptoms that may mean a blood clot in the lungs, call 911 or get emergency help. What are the symptoms of varicose veins?The following are the most common symptoms of varicose veins. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
Severe varicose veins may eventually produce long-term mild swelling that can result in more serious skin and tissue problems. These include ulcers and nonhealing sores. The symptoms of varicose veins may resemble other medical conditions or problems. Always talk with your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. How are varicose veins diagnosed?In addition to a complete medical history and physical exam, diagnostic procedures for varicose veins may include:
What is the treatment for varicose veins?Specific treatment for varicose veins will be determined by your healthcare provider based on:
Medical treatment may not be necessary if there are no symptoms. However, varicose veins may sometimes worsen without treatment. Medical treatment may include:
What are the complications of varicose veins?Varicose veins are usually not serious. But, complications may happen. They include:
Can varicose veins be prevented?Steps to prevent varicose veins include:
Can varicose veins go away?No, varicose veins don't go away on their own, but there are many things you can do to make them less noticeable without a lot of makeup. If you have stopped wearing shorts in the summer or avoid showing your legs at all, this is good news.
How can I get rid of varicose veins on my legs without surgery?Compression therapy is the most conservative treatment option. Compression stockings are designed to apply specific pressure to the legs to alleviate discomfort and swelling and do not require a prescription.
Can you fix varicose veins on your own?Management and Treatment
Although there isn't a cure for varicose veins, these treatments can reduce their appearance and relieve discomfort: Elevation: To increase blood flow and decrease pressure in your veins, you should elevate your legs above your waist several times throughout the day.
What is the main cause of varicose veins?Varicose veins are usually caused by weak vein walls and valves. Inside your veins are tiny one-way valves that open to let the blood through, and then close to prevent it flowing backwards. Sometimes the walls of the veins become stretched and lose their elasticity, causing the valves to weaken.
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