Are varicose veins having a negative impact on your appearance? Are the veins becoming painful or swollen, making it difficult for you to walk or stand for long periods of time?

Learning why varicose veins occur in the first place may help you make the lifestyle changes to improve your condition. Even then, you have options to remove varicose veins for good with laser surgery and treatments.  

About Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are a common condition in the United States and Europe, and are especially prevalent in people over the age of 40. According to the Mayo Clinic, almost 15 percent of men and 25 percent of women have varicose veins, and while many conditions are harmless, some are linked to a number of health problems. Varicose veins can affect anyone with poor blood circulation, and the risk of developing them is increased in those who are obese, in women who are pregnant, or for anyone undergoing hormonal shifts and changes.  

What Causes Varicose Veins?  

Varicose veins are a result of faulty blood valves that lead to a backup of blood in a particular area. When blood cannot circulate properly through the veins, it can become ‘clogged’ and causes the vein to expand and bulge. This is why varicose veins are usually raised above the skin’s surface, and often develop a purple or green color from the lack of healthy circulation. In some cases, the vein and surrounding skin can lead to pain and swelling; itching, redness, and skin discoloration are other indications that the vein may need treatment. Other causes of varicose veins include:  

• Long periods of standing or sitting still – many flight attendants and customer service clerks are at risk for developing varicose veins because of the long hours on their feet.
• Genetic predisposition – if either parent or your grandparents developed varicose veins, you are also at risk
• Lack of exercise and movement – when the heart cannot pump blood throughout the body regularly, veins can become weak and ineffective at helping with blood circulation
• Poor diet – constipation can create pressure and inadequate blood circulation throughout the entire body, and a lack of nutritious foods can weaken veins and muscles overall  

The Mayo Clinic highlights additional risk factors of varicose vein development such as:

• Age
• Obesity
• Hormone replacement drugs
• High heeled shoes
• Sitting with your legs crossed  

(Source:  MayoClinic.com)  

Preventing Varicose Veins – Lifestyle Changes and Options  

While there is no known cure for varicose veins, there are some ways to reduce your risk of developing them with a few lifestyle changes. Dr. Ben Kim suggests the following healthy lifestyle options for preventing the formation of varicose veins:  

1. Eating foods high in Vitamin C; these can help build and protect healthy blood vessels
2. Reducing excessive pressure in your legs by wearing compression stockings or elevating the legs while resting
3. Exercising regularly; fresh oxygen can help you maintain a healthy cardiovascular system and improves blood circulation naturally
4. Reduce alcohol intake; protecting your liver is essential for efficient blood circulation, so a damaged liver can increase your risk of varicose veins and other conditions of poor health  

(Source:  DrBenKim.com)    

Whether you’re at risk or have developed varicose veins already, you don’t have to suffer from the painful or unsightly condition forever; laser treatment options are available, and these can reduce or eliminate varicose veins completely. Get in touch with your local cosmetic surgeon to learn more about the latest treatments available, or read more about varicose veins in our information guide.