Varicose veins result from poor blood circulation in the legs. They can be prevented using certain measures, and treated if they appear.
The venous system consists of a set of blood vessels of different sizes, like small pipes, its function is to transport deoxygenated blood to the heart. The blood is then pumped to the lungs to eliminate waste and be reoxygenated. Once it is purified, the blood returns to the heart, which in turn pumps it to different organs and parts of the body.
Sometimes, veins are unable to perform their function as vessels and carriers to ensure that blood returns to the heart. When fighting gravity and other difficulties, like loss of elasticity, veins dilate to get the blood to its destination. Varicose veins, which are permanently dilated veins, are a physical manifestation of this problem.
We speak of varicose veins when superficial veins are affected. In general, varicose veins become more and more dilated, apparent, and thus inconvenient, over time. The term "spider veins" is used to describe varicose veins that affect very small veins that appear close to the surface of the skin.
Most varicose veins and spider veins appear on the legs. Varicose veins are usually enlarged and twisting. They can be accompanied by swelling, itching, redness, and a feeling of pain, heaviness or heat. Spider veins look like small spider webs that are bluish-red in colour on the surface of the skin and can sometimes evoke the image of a map.
If varicose veins worsen, they can lead to cutaneous fibrosis (hardening of the skin), venous ulcers, and even blood clots.
It is estimated that 5 to 30% of adults, including three times more women than men, will have varicose veins at a point in time. Heredity plays a significant role in the predisposition to varicose veins.
Other risk factors include:
Compression socks help the blood in the small superficial veins to flow to the main deeper veins by exercising a gradual pressure on the leg. By improving blood circulation, these socks preserve the integrity of small veins and thus, prevent varicose veins. For an optimal effect, they apply more pressure at the ankle and gradually become less tight on the upper leg.
There are several types of compression socks available on the market, in a variety of fabrics, sizes, and colours. Some models go up to the knee or to the thigh, while others are stockings. It is essential to choose the right model, size, and degree of compression (expressed in millimetres of mercury or mm Hg).
Ask your pharmacist for advice if you would like to purchase compression socks, sometimes called support socks. He/she can help you make the right choice and explain how to make optimal use of them. Depending on your situation, it could be necessary to seek your doctor's advice.
The following measures can help prevent the appearance of varicose veins.
Speak to your doctor if you notice varicose veins on your legs. He/she can evaluate the situation and determine the best treatment for you, if necessary.
Treatment methods include:
Don't hesitate to speak to your pharmacist for additional information about varicose veins or compression socks.
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