The 3 Main Causes of Varicose Veins

Blog Post
By BASS Vein Center
The 3 Main Causes of Varicose Veins
October 19, 2023

Varicose veins can be unsightly and even painful. They are veins that become twisted and enlarged. Some people feel discomfort with varicose veins while others do not feel them at all. It is common for people to notice their varicose veins in the legs since there is more pressure displaced in the legs. Let’s have a closer look at the symptoms of varicose veins.

The first symptoms that you might notice can include:

  • Dark blue or purple discoloration that appears below the skin
  • Veins that have a twisty or bulging appearance. Some describe it as looking ropey.

Symptoms that occur in more serious cases can include:

  • Aches or a feeling of heaviness in affected areas
  • A burning sensation or muscle cramps
  • Pain increases if standing or sitting for some period of time
  • Itching near veins
  • Skin discoloration in affected areas

Other risk factors can include age, sex, and family history. As your body gets older, the natural wear and tear on your veins can lead to weakened valves. Women are also at higher risk. Family history and genetics can play a role as well.

The Main Causes

There are a lot of factors that can cause varicose veins. The most common include pregnancy, standing for long periods of time, and obesity. Varicose veins are usually caused by weak or damaged valves. This is because there are tiny valves in your veins that return blood to the heart. If these valves are weakened, they can allow blood to fall back into the vein. Gravity is at play here, thus affecting areas of the lower body, such as the legs, the most. When blood flows back down the veins it can pool or collect there. This is why the veins become enlarged and skin discoloration can occur. 

When to Consider Varicose Veins Treatment

You might consider a trip to the doctor or varicose vein specialist if you begin to notice that your varicose veins are worsening. If you are getting exercise and taking measures through self-care, but you notice that they are not helping, you might make a quick search for “varicose veins treatment near me” and consider seeing a specialist.

Complications from varicose veins are fairly rare but can include ulcers, blood clots, and bleeding. There are some preventative measures that you can take to prevent varicose veins from forming. Exercise and maintaining a healthy weight as well as a high-fiber and low-salt diet can help. Elevating your legs, avoiding high heels and tight clothing, and changing your standing or sitting position often will also help.

It is important that you keep watch if you have varicose veins. If they continue worsening, it can be indicative of other, more serious problems. Varicose veins can also cause feelings of insecurity. If this is the case for you, you can opt to have them treated to decrease their visibility or even render them invisible. If it is important to you to have them dealt with, there are places that will be more than happy to help.

BASS Vein Center

If you are seriously considering varicose veins treatment, BASS Vein Center would be more than happy to help address your situation. Call them at (925) 281-5912 or click here to set up an appointment. The insecurity, discomfort, and other issues that come with varicose veins can be difficult to handle. Don’t go about it alone. Let BASS Vein Center help you to handle the issue with experience, compassion, and professionalism.

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