by Cindy Wagner

Created on: June 09, 2008   Last Updated: July 08, 2008

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Our leg veins carry blood from our capillaries to our heart, and our leg veins must flow upward against gravity. One-way valves prevent blood from back flowing and pooling, but over time, the valves can fail to close tightly, allowing blood to back flow. This back flow of blood can cause veins to engorge, twist and become knotted and engorged with blood. Their bumpy, discolored appearance can be noticeably disfiguring. Varicose veins can be a result of heredity, but the tendency can be selective, passing down to only one daughter or son in a family while passing over other siblings. Pregnancy often causes varicose veins by increasing pressure in the pelvic area, but again, many women are unaffected. Hormonal shifts, weight gain and prolonged sitting and standing may result in the formation of varicose veins. However, heredity seems to be a key factor in whether or not these risk factors will result in gnarled and enlarged veins.

Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins appear as enlarged blue or purple veins on the skin of the leg, varicose veins in the ankle and feet veins may have brownish-gray coloration. Varicose veins often cause aching, fatigue, throbbing, cramping and heaviness in the leg. These symptoms coupled with severe swelling and itching around the varicosity, make shoes painful to wear and bare legs an enjoyment of the past.

How to Prevent Varicose Veins

Stay active and keep your weight under control, avoid standing and sitting for long periods. Whenever possible, put your legs up. Walk when you can, and wear loose clothing and well made shoes. Avoid crossing or sitting on your legs. Take note of your daily routines, stop activities that might impede healthy blood flow to your legs. Avoid constipation, drink plenty of water, and eat whole grains, fruit, and bran. If you have a strong varicose vein predisposition you may still end up with varicose veins, but thankfully, new medical developments give patients improved treatment options.

Treatment Options for Varicose Veins

Venous Ablation is an excellent option for the correction of varicose veins. It uses radiofrequency or laser energy to close faulty veins, effectively eliminating varicosities while leaving veins in place. Performed by medical doctors who are experienced in catheter and ultrasound use, venous ablation causes fewer side effects than traditional ligation and stripping surgery. With local anesthetic, the physician inserts a thin catheter into a vein, and then

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