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Varicose veins – causes, side effects and treatments at NaturalPedia.com

Wednesday, July 11, 2018 by

Varicose veins refer to swollen, twisted veins that are seen just under the skin. Most people identify varicose veins to occur in the legs, it can be found in other parts of the body. In particular, hemorrhoids are one type of varicose vein.

The condition occurs when valves in the veins are weak or damaged. This can cause blood to back up and pool in the veins, causing it to swell.

It is a common condition, especially for women. People who are obese and do not exercise, or those with a family history of varicose veins, are also more likely to get it.

Known risk factors and symptoms of varicose veins

Certain people are more prone to developing varicose veins, including:

  • Females
  • Individuals with a family history of varicose veins
  • Older adults
  • Overweight individuals
  • Those with jobs that require long periods of standing
  • Pregnant women

Body systems affected by varicose veins

In rare cases, varicose veins can lead to the following complications:

  • Ulcers. Painful ulcers from a long-term fluid buildup in the tissues may develop on the skin near the varicose veins.
  • Blood clots. Certain cases of varicose veins can lead to a noticeable swelling of the leg. This requires urgent medical attention as this could be a serious blood clot.
  • Bleeding. If the vein is close to the skin, this may burst and cause minor bleeding.

Food items or nutrients that may prevent varicose veins

Certain food items can be eaten or used as a topical solution to relieve a person of varicose veins. These include:

  • Apple cider vinegar – Drink two teaspoons diluted in water or massage it over the area to improve blood flow and circulation.
  • Cayenne pepper – Drink one teaspoon of cayenne pepper powder mixed into a cup of hot water thrice a day for at least a month to improve blood circulation.
  • Olive oil – Warm it with essential oil and apply on the affected area to reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Garlic – Massage the affected area with garlic extract mixed with oranges and olive oil to break up toxins and improve circulation. It can also be added to a person’s diet.

Treatments, management options for varicose veins

For the most part, healthcare professionals have conservative treatments for varicose veins. These include lifestyle changes such as:

  • Avoiding standing for extended periods
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Exercising
  • Compression socks or stockings – These place enough pressure on the legs so that blood can flow up to the heart, which can decrease swelling.

Where to learn more

Summary

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that are seen just under the skin.

Varicose veins are known to occur in the legs, but it can be found in other parts of the body.

Varicose veins occur when valves in the veins are weak or damaged.

Varicose veins are a common condition, especially for women. People who are obese and do not exercise, or those with a family history of varicose veins, are also more likely to get it.

Varicose veins can lead to the following complications such as ulcers, bleeding, and blood clots.

Varicose veins can be remedied using certain food items like apple cider vinegar and garlic.

Varicose veins treatments are conservative, at most, and will usually require lifestyle changes.

Sources include:

MedLinePlus.gov

NHS.uk

MayoClinic.org

Top10HomeRemedies.com

Healthline.com



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