Most people worry about the issue of varicose veins owing to an unwarranted fear of body bulging. The common misconception of the eyesores is that they are just cosmetic issues, which is far from the truth. Varicose vein treatment should be availed not only because one is self-conscious, but to determine underlying, serious issues, if any.
Some people tout these problems to be just part of ugliness, while others are known to experience pain and discomfort too. This condition is a sign of any venous insufficiency, especially when the veins are not able to circulate blood from legs to the heart adequately. One needs to rely on self-care measures or even consult a doctor if the case is serious. Here are five things one should know about varicose veins and its impact:
1. It is primarily genetic
Varicose veins are known to be mainly hereditary, with more than 80 percent of cases attributed to parents. If both parents are suffering from the condition, the likelihood of passing the same to their children increases is nearly 90 percent. The condition is mostly visible in women, but even men suffer from the condition, and can be passed to the next generation by either mother or father.
2. Varicose veins are not like spider veins
Many people do not realize the difference between varicose veins and spider veins. One experiences protruding veins stretched out owing to blood pooling in the case of varicose veins. Spider veins on the other hand are purplish-colored veins visible beneath the skin, owing to poor circulation of blood, and not so serious as the other.
3. These are superficial veins
The body does not require veins that become varicose veins in reality, since they are part of the superficial vein system, and not important to your circulatory system. The treatment hence is less invasive and does not in any way affect the blood flow to your heart. Superficial veins are visible close to the skin surface and are not required to pump blood to the heart, like the other deep-seated veins.
4. Pregnancy sometimes results in varicose veins
The growing fetus does put huge pressure on inferior vena cava, that actually drains blood from the limbs. Pregnancy also results in huge production of hormones, that affects the muscle of the veins to relax, and hence drives them to enlarge. The condition improves within a year of giving birth to a child, especially if the condition was not there before pregnancy. Women are susceptible to this condition in case of late pregnancy.
5. Exercise is a good way to avoid vein issues
As with pregnancy, any excess weight can lead to varicose vein development. Exercise is key to reducing weight since it drives active circulation, aiding the blood to reach the heart rather than pooling at different places.
Although one cannot predict if one can suffer from varicose veins, one can seek a good doctor’s advice on its treatment. Also check for any serious underlying vascular conditions that need your immediate attention. If you are suffering from varicose veins in Encino, CA, contact us today and we can help you save some bucks!