Varicose veins threaten women more…factors and ways of prevention

Varicose veins may begin with the appearance of prominent blue or purple veins under the skin, but over time they may be accompanied by annoying symptoms, such as pain, a feeling of heaviness in the legs, swelling, and itching. In some cases, it may develop into complications that require medical intervention.

Vascular specialists point out that early identification of risk factors and warning signs, in addition to following some simple daily procedures, helps alleviate symptoms and limit the worsening of the condition, along with knowing the appropriate time to consult a doctor.

Varicose veins appear in the form of enlarged and tortuous veins that are visible under the skin, and often affect the legs, ankles, and feet. It arises as a result of a defect in the functioning of the venous valves, whose function is to prevent blood from returning to the bottom. The weakness of these valves leads to blood pooling inside the veins and increasing pressure on them, causing them to expand and appear clearly.

How do varicose veins form?

Veins work to return blood from various parts of the body to the heart, a task that becomes more difficult in the legs due to the movement of blood against gravity. The contraction of the leg muscles during walking and movement helps push the blood upward, while the venous valves prevent it from refluxing downward.

But when these valves weaken or lose their ability to close completely, blood accumulates inside the veins, and venous pressure rises, so the veins begin to gradually expand and turn into varicose veins.

Factors that increase the risk of infection

The genetic factor is one of the most prominent causes of varicose veins, as the chances of them appearing are higher in people who have a family history of the condition. The risks also increase with age, weight gain, and the nature of some jobs that require standing or sitting for long periods without movement.

Women are more susceptible to infection than men, due to factors related to pregnancy, hormonal changes, and hormone replacement therapy.

Although it is not possible to completely prevent the appearance of varicose veins, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding prolonged stability in a sitting or standing position may help reduce pressure on the veins in the legs and limit the progression of the condition.

When do varicose veins need medical follow-up?

Varicose veins in the legs that do not cause pain or annoying symptoms do not require treatment in all cases, but the appearance of pain or sensitivity when touching the area, or the feeling of heaviness or swelling in the legs, requires a medical evaluation.

Continued high pressure within the veins may cause fluid and red blood cells to leak into the surrounding tissues, causing swelling of the legs, dry skin, itching, and discoloration of the skin. In rare cases, the condition may develop into venous ulcers that are difficult to heal.

Varicose veins are also associated with an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis, which is a complication that requires urgent medical care, especially when swelling or sudden pain appears in one leg, especially after long periods of lack of movement.

Procedures to help relieve symptoms

There is no definitive treatment that prevents the appearance of existing varicose veins, but some daily measures may help relieve symptoms and slow their development, including:

• Walk regularly to stimulate blood movement in the legs.

• Move the feet and legs periodically, especially while sitting for long periods.

• Elevate the legs for about 15 minutes when sitting or lying down to help return blood to the heart.

• Use compression stockings that help reduce blood pooling inside the veins and reduce the effect of gravity.

Doctors confirm that medical follow-up when symptoms appear or noticeable changes in the shape of the veins helps in choosing the appropriate treatment before complications develop.