Varicose Veins
Varicose Veins are large superficial veins. They’re swollen, twisted blood vessels that cause aching pain and discomfort. Sometimes varicose veins can lead to more serious vascular problems, so it’s important to treat them before they do so.
Symptoms
- An achy or heavy feeling in your legs
- Burning, throbbing, muscle cramping and swelling in your lower legs
- Worsened pain after sitting or standing for a long time
- Itching around one or more of your veins
- Skin discoloration around a varicose vein
Causes
- Heredity
- Occupations that involve a lot of standing, such as nurses, hair stylists, teachers, and factory workers
- Obesity
- Hormonal influences of pregnancy, puberty, and menopause
- The use of birth control pills
- Postmenopausal hormonal replacement
- A history of blood clots
- Conditions that cause increased pressure in the abdomen, such as tumors, constipation, and externally worn garments like girdles.
