Varicose veins are twisted and enlarged veins, usually found on legs. Excessive pressure on the veins, especially when standing and sitting, is the main reason for the enlargement of these superficial veins, but heredity also seems to have a major role.
Since legs are the farthest extremity from the heart, it requires extra effort to pump the blood up the veins in the leg and back into the heart against gravity. This is done by the calf muscles.
There are paired valves in these veins to prevent backflow of the blood, but as the veins lose their elasticity and become dilated, these valves fail. This results in blood getting pooled in the veins, causing them to twist and bulge out.
Varicose veins are seen more often in women and in people who have to work in a standing position for long hours. Pregnancy and obesity worsen the condition since they put extra strain on the legs. Unless accompanied by pain, severe itching, ulceration, or eczema, varicose veins are often considered merely a cosmetic problem.
Occasionally it could be associated with another serious condition called deep vein thrombosis, in which case, immediate medical intervention may be necessary.
Uncomplicated varicose veins are usually treated by either surgically removing them or destroying them with lasers or injection of chemicals. But these harsh treatments can be avoided by using some of these effective home remedies. The main focus of these remedies is to strengthen the walls of the blood vessels and improve blood circulation.
Ways To Treat Varicose Veins With Effective Home Remedies
Applying uniform pressure on the legs with specially designed compression stockings is a tried and tested remedy for varicose veins. Loss of elasticity of the blood vessels and their consequent enlargement reduces the efficiency of the venous valves trying to stem the backflow of blood.
The gentle, yet consistent pressure compresses the veins, reducing their diameter. This helps the valves to work more effectively to prevent the backflow. The additional support for the venous walls facilitates the smooth flow of blood, reducing the risk of stagnation and blood clot formation.
When used at the initial stages of varicose veins, compression stockings can stop the progress of the condition, or even reverse it. Several types of compression garments available, but you should always seek medical advice to find out what type is best suited to your condition.