Varicose veins

Description

This condition occurs mainly in the superficial veins in the legs and feet where veins become stretched, twisted, and enlarged, although they may be seen elsewhere. In many cases, varicose veins are simply a cosmetic concern and have no symptoms or complications, and can be managed/treated at home.

If left untreated Increased pain and swelling may result, and the veins continue to get more damaged, which could make the pain worse and the legs more swollen.

Despite being rare the following complications may be seen:
1. Painful ulcers can form
2. Occasionally, veins deep within the legs become enlarged
3. Veins close to the skin may burst.

Symptoms

General symptoms:
1. A cosmetic unsightliness of the legs and feet where veins become stretched, twisted, enlarged, bluish looking, and lumpy.
2. An achy or heavy feeling in the legs
3. Burning, throbbing, muscle cramping, and swelling in the lower legs
4. An Itching sensation around one or more of the veins
5. Pain is worsened after sitting or standing for a long time
6. Varicose veins may become more painful and worse during the menses
7. Edema (Swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body’s tissues)
8. Pregnancy or constipation may cause or worsen varicose veins

If complications occur:
1. Painful ulcers can form on the skin near varicose veins, particularly near the ankles.
2. Occasionally, veins deep within the legs become enlarged and might cause leg pain, swelling, and clotting.
3. Veins close to the skin may burst and cause bleeding.

Treatments

1. Elevating the legs above heart level for 20 min per day may alleviate symptoms.
2. Frequent movement is beneficial to improve circulation, particularly if sitting behind a desk all day. Flexing leg muscles, wiggling toes, and walking around may assist with this.
3. Diet and supplementation. Excess body weight puts additional pressure on the circulatory system
4. Wearing loose clothing that doesn’t restrict blood flow
5. Regular moderate exercise including walking, swimming, and cycling will promote good circulation.
6. If standing for long periods try shifting the weight between feet, taking short walks, and standing on your toes to alleviate pressure.
7. Medical support stockings

Nutrients and supplements:
1. Zinc – aids in healing
2. Lecithin – a fat emulsifier that aids circulation
3. Buffered Vitamin C – aids circulation and reduces blood clotting tendencies. It promotes healing and prevents bruising.
4. Vitamin E- helps improve circulation
5. Cell Oxygen – improves oxygenation
6. Circulation formula – for poor and slow circulation
7. Inflammatio – when rubbed onto the affected area helps to relieve swelling and pain
8. Piloherb tablets and ointment – for haemorrhoids and varicose veins

Causes

Varicose veins are formed due to malfunctioning valves inside the veins, blood then accumulates inside the veins stretching and deforming them

1. Poor circulation contributes to the formation of varicose veins, they are more common in people who sit or stand for long periods of time, or who lack adequate exercise.
2. Pregnancy or constipation or lifting heavy weights may cause or worsen varicose veins.
3. Alcoholics tend to suffer from this condition.
4. Heart failure, liver disease, and abdominal tumors can also contribute.
5. A vitamin C deficiency may be a contributing factor
6. Hereditary factors
7. Hormone replacement therapy and birth control pills may also be a factor

Underlying Emotions

With varicose veins, there is a weakness of the connective tissue, this reveals a lack of firmness, a tendency to comply, and a lack of inner resilience. With this condition people are physically ‘unable to stand’, emotionally, therefore, they find difficulty standing up for themselves, they lack steadfastness, and there are feelings of being in a hateful situation, feeling discouragement, being overworked, and overburdened.

Diet

1. Increase fiber intake: Include high-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes in your diet. Fiber helps prevent constipation, which can contribute to the development of varicose veins and worsen symptoms.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to maintain good circulation and prevent blood from thickening.
3. Consume foods rich in antioxidants: Antioxidants help reduce inflammation and strengthen blood vessels. Include foods like berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds, which are rich in antioxidants.
4. Incorporate bioflavonoids: Bioflavonoids are plant compounds that promote healthy blood flow and strengthen blood vessel walls. Foods rich in bioflavonoids include citrus fruits, berries, onions, garlic, broccoli, and dark chocolate.
5. Include omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can improve blood circulation. Good sources include fatty fish (such as salmon and mackerel), flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
6. Limit salt intake: Excessive salt consumption can contribute to water retention and swelling, which may worsen varicose veins. Minimize processed foods, fast food, and adding excessive salt to your meals.

Remedies