Varicose veins are the bluish cords just below the surface
of the skin, usually on the legs and feet. These all twisted up veins are
usually harmless. Although ever present, they are not a threat but can be
painful and become swollen from time to time.
They might be tender, ache, or become itchy when they want attention.
They’re much more common in women and generally a genetic gift from one’s
parents.
Our blood is pushed back to the heart through the veins. The
veins operate with the muscles and valves of the arteries. These muscles use
their force to push the blood through and the valves open to let blood pass.
The valves then close after. In a varicose vein, the valve is not performing
its duty and the muscles aren’t able to push the blood through. Blood starts to
pool as the blood team members aren’t cooperating. Pressure starts to build and
the veins start to protrude and twist amongst this chaos. Circulation has
become inhibited. The veins become more visible due to becoming so enlarged. One
may feel not change to the body, but can see the bluish, purple veins coiled
near the surface of their skin. Spider veins are a milder form of this poor
blood flow outcome.
Varicosity can be amplified by obesity, standing for
prolonged periods, chronic constipation, and pregnancy. When a female is
pregnant, the uterus is causing extra pressure to the legs. Blood circulation
changes to help the growing fetus. Coupled with hormonal changes, this is why
women are more at risk for these veins. Female hormones relax the walls of the
veins. Living a mostly sedentary lifestyle leads to a blood pumping team that
is not conditioned to perform its job. Exercise increases blood flow, which in
turn can help prevent and alleviate varicose veins. Our blood pumping veins do
weaken with age, so our veins become more vulnerable to this condition the
older we get.
For most people with varicose veins, medical attention is
not needed. Treatment can start with compression socks. These are sold over the
counter, but a doctor can prescribe high pressure compression socks. These
socks apply strong pressure beginning at the ankles and tapering off towards
the knee. They help the leg muscles do their job to push blood up to the heart
and can be worn throughout the day. Swelling can be alleviated by ibuprofen or
aspirin.
Varicose veins can be removed but there are also natural remedies
to try. Eating foods that support vein health are part of this. These include
foods high in fiber (e.g., whole grains, beans, broccoli) that help with
digestion. When you are constipated this actually puts pressure on veins to
push the food through. Foods with potassium ((e.g., yogurt, almonds, salmon) also
help with water retention. When the body is potassium-deficient this increase blood
volume in the veins which then extra pressure. Foods with flavonoids (e.g.,
onion, garlic, bell peppers) help with cardiovascular health which is necessary
for blood circulation. There are also herbal options that can be taken orally or
used topically. Rutosides such as and grape seed extra have been found swelling,
cramping, and restless leg syndrome which are all caused by chronic venous insufficiency.
For the most part, varicose veins just add color and character to your lower body. However, if they are painful, itchy, and a persistent hinderance, medical attention may be in order. Our blood is our body’s fuel, so we have to make sure each team member for flow is able to do their part. Be sure to exercise, manage your weight, avoid high heels and tight clothing that restricts blood flow, and elevate your legs from time to time if the majority of your day is standing. Pressure can be stressful and your blood shares this sentiment. Your heart health is influenced by your blood health, so we must make sure the veins live in a healthy environment where their job is not disrupted.
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/circulationaha.113.008331
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1400781
https://medlineplus.gov/varicoseveins.html
https://www.healthline.com/health/home-remedies-for-varicose-veins
Megan Johnson McCullough owns a fitness studio in Oceanside CA called Every BODY’s Fit. She has an M.A. in Physical Education & Health Science, is a current candidate for her Doctorate in Health & Human Performance, and she’s an NASM Master Trainer & Instructor. She’s also a professional natural bodybuilder, fitness model, Wellness Coach, and AFAA Group Exercise Instructor.
