Thursday, November 10, 2011

Varicose Veins

> Varicose veins are dilated veins, with increased volume, becoming tortuous and elongated with time. Varicose veins are superficial and therefore, acquire a darker red or purple. They are more common in women than in men.

The arteries carry blood from the heart to the extremities, and veins are meant to carry blood back to the heart, driven mainly by the calf muscle pump. Inside the veins are small valves that prevent the venous return to the extremities. When the valves do not close properly return, this is called reflux. When reflux occurs, increases the amount of blood in the veins, which causes them to dilate.

One of the main factors for the development of varicose veins is the hereditary or familial. The genetic factor causes a decrease in resistance of the walls of veins and valvular insufficiency.

Another important factor is the hormone. During pregnancy, there is a greater release of hormones, which can cause decreased muscle tone of the venous wall. At the end of pregnancy, compression of the pregnant uterus on the veins of the abdomen can also trigger veins. Prolonged use of contraceptives and other hormone treatments are also aggravating factors.

Obesity and type of work people who work long hours on foot favor the development of varicose veins. Pain, tiredness and heaviness in the legs are the most frequents, but can also occur, burning, edema (swelling), cramps, and numbness and areas of inflamed skin with itch ... Are more pronounced at the end of the day, on days of high temperature.

Varicose Veins Treatment:
The treatment of varicose veins may be conservative, in some cases, is the use of elastic stockings and use of medicines that improve the venous flow.

Exercising, always avoiding using too much weight on the legs for them. Elastic stockings, especially during pregnancy, or in activities in which many hours remain standing while maintaining an appropriate body weight.

Home remedy for varicose veins is to drink plenty of fresh fruit juices. Cherries, blackberries and grapes blueberries all contain natural chemicals that help make your veins stronger. The pineapple juice is also beneficial for people suffering from varicose veins. It contains the enzyme bromelain, helps prevent blood clots from forming in your legs.

Simple steps can prevent varicose veins or slow the progress:
- Avoid standing still, standing for a long time; simulate walking, even without changing the steps, from time to time, to pump blood upwards.
- After the bath, massage your legs up when the feet to the thighs, as if squeezing the blood back up.
- If you rest a little in the middle of the day, use a large pillow, and not too high to lift his legs a little for the rest of the body, which should be horizontal.
- If you use stockings for varicose veins, preferring medium compression, and remember that you must wear them before getting out of bed in the morning. Stay with them as they feel comfortable, if possible by evening.
- Create the good habit of exercise daily, walk, bike, treadmill, swimming, etc...

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