To know why you have varicose vein pain, you just have to look at the whole picture. Veins are a simple design which runs throughout the body. Vessels are nothing more than tubes in which the blood flows. To ensure the correct direction of the flow of blood, there are flaps which prevent it from flowing backwards. When the flaps do not work correctly the blood pools in locations or and sometimes will flow backward causing complications and usually some discomfort as well. This is known as venous insufficiency.
Varicose veins, or venous insufficiency, typically develops in the lower extremities, but can be found anywhere in a person’s body. For instance, hemorrhoids are a form of venous insufficiency not found in the extremities.
So to summarize: It is the abnormal swelling or dilating of the veins specially in your legs. Varicose is a condition where the vein is inflamed, engorged or enlarged. The vein or the vena in this state is abnormally functioning. The venous blood vessel is not in its normal pumping capacity to thrust blood from the capillaries towards the heart, thus the term varicose condition causing discomfort or pain.
Varicose Vein Symptoms
The condition has a wide range of symptoms which can develop as it progresses. Occasionally, there are people who never develop any symptoms or suffer any pain at all.
Most people are familiar with the appearance that develops. The vessels become distended and visually obvious to the observer. These may also be discolored and twisted looking. Another symptom is the throbbing pain which can produce problems and discomfort for the individual.
Varicose vein pain has been described as throbbing, burning, and as a cramping sensation. When these occur in the legs, people may complain of a heavy or achy feeling in them. Individuals may also experience swelling or itching at or around the dysfunctional vessel. People state that the level of pain is aggravated by standing for long periods of time.
In some serious cases, ulcers emerge. These are most commonly found around the ankles and can indicate additional vascular issues are present. This situation requires immediate attention by a Doctor. So once again to summarize the symptoms associated with venous insufficiency:
• Enlargement of veins
• Feeling of heaviness in the leg
• Leg and buttock pain and swelling
• Rash
• Skin discoloration
• Feeling of cramps in the legs
• Visible vein discoloration
Causes of Varicose Veins
While no one knows the precise causes of varicose veins forming, there are a few leading factors which common sense would indicate as the primary culprits. Perhaps the greatest contributing element to the formation of venous insufficiency is blood pressure. Anything which raises blood pressure, including obesity and pregnancy, can lead to stress on the vein walls in the legs or cause the weakening of the valves inside the veins. This can lead to the enlarged, uneven outlines visible just beneath the skin and the varicose vein pain which goes with them.
Another element seems to be gender as women typically experience this condition more than men. The rationale behind this is tied up in hormones which cause increases in pressure on the veins. During puberty, pregnancy, menopause, and even while taking birth control pills or experiencing a normal menstrual cycle, women’s natural systems are prone to greater fluctuations in blood pressure, and with that pressure comes the appearance of veins which have been overworked.
Time is another contributing factor to the causes of varicose veins. As we age, much of our tissue begins to weaken, including veins. Sitting or standing for long periods of time without movement can be a problem as this places more stress on veins, which causes the inner valves to malfunction, and blood then begins pooling inside vein walls, causing them to become distended, which can lead to discomfort, and which could be an indicator of the need for medical treatment. In summary we can list the causes as such:
• Vein or venous abnormality
• Pregnancy
• Thrombophlebitis
• Extended standing with no motion or activity
• Salty diet
• Prolonged sun exposure
Preventing Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are unsightly, typically uncomfortable and painful and if left untreated can develop into a very serious medical condition if there is a breakage in the veins. Naturally preventing the onset of venous insufficiency is preferable so that you don’t have to suffer the pain! There is not much to be done about hereditary conditions however there are both medical as well as personal preventative treatment solutions and options for dealing with the onset of varicose veins. By monitoring future weight gain, regular exercise and limiting your wearing of high heels you can prevent the onset or reoccurrences of the condition.
Secondary varicose veins are easily prevented and need no necessary medical attention. A healthy lifestyle is still the best preventive measure that one must follow in order to avoid varicose vein pain.
Treatment of Venous Insufficiency
Treating varicose vein pain can be done at home for mild cases. There is often no reason to seek medical attention as home remedies and some products will help immensely. Some suggestions for home treatment are:
• Water Therapy
• Hot Water Compression
• Massage
• Constant Exercise
• Healthy and Low Salt Diet
• Vitamins
• Elevated feet when sleeping
In the event the condition does not react to the presented remedies or for severe cases of varicose veins, there are nonsurgical practices that can be adapted in treating excessive pain. Some suggestions are:
• Scleropathy
• Radiofrequency treatment
• Laser treatment
• Acupuncture
• Acupressure
There are surgical methods such as vein stripping surgery and that is recommended for severe or acute condition of varicose vein and consultation with a doctor is obviously required. Medical attention is indeed advised for symptoms where bleeding, ankle ulceration or unbearable varicose vein pain are felt.