Tackling Varicose Veins

They’re unsightly and uncomfortable – here’s how you can help the problem.

Varicose veins are the enlarged blue lumps that most commonly appear on our legs and feet, often causing us to cover up even in warm weather. They might be small, but varicose veins can be a big problem; in fact, they can be the cause of embarrassment and even extreme pain. Are you suffering is silence? Stop!

Stopping the signs

Varicose veins are usually thought of as bulging veins that protrude from your skin. “However, up to half of all varicose veins sufferers show no avert signs of the condition, as the problematic veins remain hidden under the skin,” adds Professor Whiteley. They can often be mistaken for thread or spider veins.

Many assume that it is purely a cosmetic condition and will seek removal for thread or spider veins, advise Professor Whiteley. But if the hidden veins are not found and treated, these gentle treatments are unlikely to get rid of them.

So how can you spot the difference?

V Visible. Can see them on the skin surface or below?
E Enlarged veins that are blue or dark purple in colour
I Itchy, sore or dry skin
N Nodular, bulging or even twisted veins
S Swollen, achy or heavy legs and ankles

Preventing them

The majority of sufferers can thank their genetics for their various – vein – related troubles. But there are ways to decrease your chances of developing various veins. Keep a healthy weight, exercise regularly, avoid high heels and tight clothing, and don’t spend too much time sitting or standing. “When you sit for extended periods of time, muscles in your legs that help pump blood aren’t used much, “explains Professor Whiteley. This is why blood falls down and causes or inflames various veins.

The available treatments for this include:

Compression stockings – You’ll need to check with your doctor if you’re a suitable candidate for these.

Endothermal Ablation – Energy from High-frequency radio waves or lasers seal the veins.

Radiofrequency ablation – Involves heating the wall of your vein via an incision in the leg.

Endovenous laser treatment – Similar to above, except this treatment uses lasers to deliver bursts of energy.

EXPERT TIP – BE SURE TO STAND EVERY 30 MINUTES OR SO AND PUMP YOUR CALVES BY RISING UP ONTO YOUR TOES!

Author: Lyn Ross