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Home -> Shop By Store -> Varicose Veins
Varicose Veins
Introduction
Varicose veins, is the condition in which the valves of the elongated, dilated, twisted and superficial veins are either absent or have become incompetent. These are actually the abnormal veins that develop in the soft tissue beneath the skin. This usually happens in the legs. The main problem lies with their inefficiency in carrying the blood back to the heart, thus their removal is actually problem free and in fact increases the performance of the venous circulation.
Blue, swollen and knotted veins usually signify the presence of this condition. In its advanced form this condition could be harmful to the patient’s health as it may be associated with the venous stasis ulcers, phlebitis, or thromboses.
Causes
The cause of this condition is not yet clearly understood. In certain conditions, the absence or weakness of the valves that are responsible for preventing the blood from flowing back to the heart are considered to be the reason of poor circulation. The weakness in the vein walls may also be one of the causes. Diseases such as phlebitis or congenital abnormalities of the veins may also result in this condition.
Risk Factors
- People with phlebitis or congenital abnormality in their veins.
Symptoms & Signs
- Tired legs.
- Heaviness.
- Aching.
- Muscular cramps.
- Swelled limbs.
- Itched skin over the veins.
Diagnosis
Surgeons are usually highly trained and experienced in this field. Diagnose is promptly made on the basis of physical examination without any tests.
Prevention
- Daily exercise.
- Prolonged sitting and standing should be avoided.
- Keep the body weight balanced so as to avoid pressure on the legs.
- Clothing that restricts blood flow are not advisable.
- High heel that stop normal muscle contraction affects circulation so it’s better to avoid it.
- Elastic stockings and occasional lying down is a useful prevention for the pregnant women.
- Walking is good, since it helps to push the blood upwards. Swimming in deep water is equally beneficial.
- Mobility helps the body in general circulation.
- Sleeping with feet raised above the heart level makes the blood flow away from the ankles.
Treatment
Varicose veins in normal condition do not need to be treated since it is usually not harmful, however if severe, the doctor should be consulted at once.
The best treatment of varicose veins is the removal of the affected veins. This allows the blood to flow only through the healthy veins. This removal of the affected veins could be performed through various methods such as surgery or sclerotherapy. Laser or electrocautery could as well be used to perform this task.
The amount of pain sensation varies with the kind of treatment selected. Since surgery is performed under anesthesia, the patient does not feel pain during treatment however the patient could experience the pain once the anesthesia is over.
The method selected for the treatment should be based on the doctor’s advice, the size and location of the veins, the treatment history, age, history of allergies (if any), and your ability to bear surgery and anesthesia.
Primary Natural Supplements
HERBS
- Horse chestnut
- Butcher’s broom
MINERALS
Secondary Natural Supplements
HERBS
VITAMINS
QUASI VITAMNS
Other Supplements
Dietary Guidelines
- Include a large quantity of fish and fiber in your diet.
vFatty foods and carbohydrates should be avoided.
- Lots of blue berries and citrus fruits are good for you.
- Avoid the use of margarine, animal fat, red meat, ice cream, pastries or other rich foods in your meals.
- Reduce the salt intake, since it is the reason behind swelling in people who are salt sensitive.
- A diet rich in fiber, legumes, fresh fruits, vegetables and grains should be emphasized upon.
Home Care Suggestions
- Regular exercises help in proper circulation.
- You should not sit or stand for a longer period of time.
- You should elevate your legs many times a day to encourage better blood flow
- Keep in mind to not to put unnecessary weight on the legs.
- A support hose should be the first thing you put on every morning.
- An aspirin everyday could help you in alleviating discomfort.
Mind/Body Considerations
Tight clothing is bad in both the sense of physical stress on the varicose veins and mental stress on you. Try to meditate and relax.
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