Varicose veins occur whenever your veins become dilated, enlarged, or filled with too much blood due to poor circulation. These veins usually have a blue, purple, or red appearance. They are swollen and raised near the skin’s surface and are more likely to show up in the lower extremities. These veins are known to cause a significant amount of pain and discomfort to most individuals who have them. Varicose veins are quite common, especially for women and seniors. It is estimated that at least 25% of all adults have varicose veins.
Varicose veins form when our veins fail to function as they should. All veins have a one-way valve system that stops blood from flowing backward and helps it to flow up toward the heart. When the valves become worn or damaged, blood starts to pool in the veins instead of pumping toward the heart. That causes the veins to enlarge. Varicose veins typically show up in the legs because they are the farthest away from the heart. Gravity makes it more difficult for the blood to flow upward naturally.
Some of the most common causes of varicose veins include the following:
While varicose veins often require treatment provided by a vein specialist like those here at BASS Vein Center, there are some things you can do at home to help alleviate the pain and discomfort. Here are a few suggestions for varicose vein pain relief that you can try on your own.
Staying hydrated can help out with a lot of medical conditions. Drinking plenty of water will support good blood circulation throughout the body. It will help reduce the frequency and amount of pain that you endure from varicose veins.
When you elevate your legs above your heart, you are providing instant relief from varicose vein pain. Elevating your legs helps the blood flow from your lower extremities backup to the heart as it should. It also helps the venous valves function more efficiently. By elevating your legs for 15-minute increments each day, you can also help reduce swelling.
Giving your calf muscles a workout, even if it is for short periods throughout the day, can significantly decrease the leg pain you endure. Try flexing your feet as you are sitting. And if you stand for most of the day during work, make sure you take plenty of sitting breaks.
Soaking your legs in cold water is a great way to relieve the feeling of heaviness often associated with varicose veins. The cold temperature of the water helps the blood vessels to shrink, which decreases your pain.
Wearing high heeled shoes can often trigger pain if you have varicose veins. If your venous disorder is causing you pain, choose to wear low-heeled shoes instead. Wearing tight clothing can also restrict blood flow, which can result in pain as well.
If you are tired of living with the pain and discomfort caused by your varicose veins, BASS Vein Center is here to help. We have several vein specialists on staff who can help diagnose and treat your venous disease so that you can live your life pain-free. Call us today at (925) 281-5912 to learn more.
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