Painful, uncomfortable, and affecting a large part of the global population, varicose veins are a health problem that should be taken very seriously. In this article we will discuss why and when it appears, some of the general symptoms and the most popular methods of treatment.
Credits: veinsandcosmetics.com
The root cause
Our veins are an amazing mechanical wonder until they can’t handle our lifestyle or overall health anymore. Veins are a one-way highway that transport blood from the periphery of our body to the heart and then lungs for oxygenation. This movement usually has to happen against the force of gravity, which is why varicose veins usually appear in the lower limbs.
Veins have a very clever mechanism that prevents the blood from flowing back down, and this system is simply called the vein valve. Looking just like a bird’s nest, these valves often get damaged from the following causes:
-sitting for long periods of time
-heart disease
-liver disease with ascites
-lack of exercise, etc.
All these lead to a slower blood flow in your veins. This means that the overall structure of the vein gets affected and it loses its elasticity. In time, this leads to the well-known reticulated look of varicose veins. The pain comes from the poor tissue oxygenation that is caused by this stagnation and the swelling comes from the water leaving the vein and entering the tissue.
Credits: ilveins.com
The symptoms
Many people already know the unpleasant symptoms like swelling, pain, and even local numbness. The overall aspect can cause a great decrease in self-esteem and be an overall social impediment. Furthermore, varicose veins can occasionally become dangerous. The stagnation of blood can lead to the formation of a blood clot. This clot can travel up the legs to vital organs causing a potentially dangerous situation.
The treatments
One of the most effective treatments is surgery. Even though it may not sound very appealing, this is the fastest way to recover the look and feel of your legs. Of course, people should also consider treating the main cause that led to varicose veins.
Credits: wildwifewellness.com
Another option is to go for topic treatments like creams, lotions, or gels. One of the best ingredients you should look for is horse chestnut extract. This is one of the superstar ingredients that was tested in many clinical trials. The main ingredient of horse chestnut extract is escin.
This compound increases blood circulation in the area where it is applied. In a Cochrane study the patients reported less swelling, reduced pain, and an improved aspect. It works best in long-term use.
Long story short, varicose veins can be treated and in addition, the process is very simple. Whether you are opting for surgery or natural ingredients, take care of your legs and health!
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3833478/
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1055/horse-chestnut
