Varicose veins are superficial veins in which the blood flows backwards through the circulatory system : this is called a venous reflux or incontinence.
Theses veins look bluish, dilated and distorted, an can be more or less protruding. In 95% of cases, varicosities affect superficial leg veins : the short and great saphenous veins.
People who have varicose veins suffer from chronic venous insufficiency : their venous system struggles in making the blood return to the heart.
The causes are :
- Weakness of valves that are supposed to make the blood flow one-way non-return
- Deterioration of veins walls
- Legs’ small muscular tone
Pains, tingling, and feeling of heaviness in the legs
Calf cramps and swollen ankles and feet
Varicosities : very small veins looking like spider webs on the skin
Bluish, dilated and distorted veins, mostly all along the legs
Varicose veins can lead to more or less serious complications :
Family health history (varicose vein is the most frequent genetical illness)
Multiple pregnancies
Obesity
Working in a standing position
Sedentariness
Sitting still for long periods
Frequent exposition to heat (sunbathing, very warm baths, saunas, steam rooms, etc...)
Activity
Elevating the legs as often as possible, move feet and ankles
Move and frequently vary the posture (especially during trips)
Physical exercise on a frequent and regular basis (walking, swimming, biking...)
Temperature
Apply cold water on the legs at bedtime, especially by high heat or in floor-heated homes
Avoid sources of heat
Clothing
Avoid tight clothes
Wear low-heeled shoes
Wear special compression stockings
Diet
Reduce consumption of salt to prevent water retention