Varicose veins are a common condition that affects up to 50% of adults. Some people don’t even know they have them because the vein isn’t visible on the skin’s surface. Varicose veins can be found in any part of your body but are often seen in the legs and ankles. The most common symptom is leg pain or heaviness with standing or walking, which may be worse at night when you’re lying down. In El Paso, TX, you’ll find dependable varicose veins experts ready to assist you. Book an appointment with the finest specialists for varicose veins in El Paso, Texas.
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that have lost the ability to return blood from your legs and feet back to your heart. They may be painful or painless. Most people call them “varicose” veins because they “tend” to run in a particular direction. These abnormal leg veins are called venous insufficiency, varicocele, or venous reflux in medical terms.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are caused by a backup of blood in the veins. This usually happens because the valves in the veins that help keep blood flowing in the right direction become weak or damaged. When these valves don’t work correctly, the blood flows backward.Â
Your veins are not designed to work against gravity. When you are standing or sitting, the valves in your veins close so your blood doesn’t fall into the lower part of your body. When you’re lying down, gravity causes this reversed blood flow to be “pushed” back up toward your heart and lungs.
Diagnosis of Varicose Veins
Most people with varicose veins don’t need any tests. Your doctor can usually diagnose them by looking at your legs. If your doctor suspects you have a more severe problem, they may order other tests, such as an ultrasound, to see how well the blood is flowing in your veins.
Prevention of Varicose Veins
You can prevent varicose veins or help keep them under control by exercising regularly and losing weight if you are overweight. If your job requires long periods of standing, take breaks to sit down and rest often. Wear support stockings or compression hoses while at work or on extended trips. Try not to cross your legs while seated.
Treatment of Varicose Veins
If you have mild varicose veins, these simple measures can help keep your legs healthy. If your veins are more serious, you may need procedures to get the blood moving through your veins normally again. These include:
- Sclerotherapy is a standard treatment for varicose veins. During this procedure, a doctor injects a solution into the veins. This solution causes the vein to swell and collapse. Over time, the vein fades and disappears.
- Radiofrequency ablation is a newer treatment for varicose veins. A doctor uses a special tool to heat and destroy the vein during this procedure.
- Lifestyle changes can help reduce varicose veins. These may include stopping smoking because smoking makes the blood vessels more likely to become varicose. Secondly, eat foods high in fiber, such as whole-grain bread, cereals, fresh fruits, and leafy green vegetables.
The best way to prevent or treat varicose veins is by making lifestyle changes. One of the most important things you can do for your health and well-being is to eat a high fiber diet, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. You should also exercise regularly and take breaks from standing when possible. Seeking help from varicose veins specialists is essential.
