The varicose veins are the veins that become enlarged dilated and filled with blood which are also called as varicoses or varicosities. These are usually seen in the lower limbs or the veins that are farthest from the heart and appear in blackish purple color and swollen. These veins usually have one sided function i.e, to prevent the blood from flowing backward. When these valves fail to function blood starts accumulating and leads to enlarging veins. Gravity also makes it harder for the blood to flow upwards.

These are most commonly seen in women than in men. Standing too long or straining the legs also causes varicose veins.

Types:-

• Primary varicose veins: this usually occurs due to weakness in valves or defect in smooth muscles and connective tissue. or due to congenital absence of valves.
• Secondary varicose veins: caused due to deep vein thrombosis leading to destruction of valves.

There are 4 stages of varicose veins:

• 1st stage there are reticular or spider veins.
• 2nd stage there is varicose veins or nodules seen.
• 3rd stage there is edema of lower leg.
• 4th stage there is varicose eczema or tropical ulcer seen.

Symptoms:

• Dilated and swollen veins can be observed on skin.
• There is pain throbbing and muscle cramps itching around the veins.
• Heaviness over the vein.
• Discoloration of the skin.
• In severe cases there is bleeding and ulcer formation.

It is Diagnosed by physical examination and tests like ultra sound and venogram are usually done for differentiating between blood clot, blockages and deep vein thrombosis.

Life style changes that add on to the faster recovery along with treatment are maintaining healthy weight, avoid standing for longer periods of time, doing circulation exercises, elevating the legs when resting ,taking high fiber and low salt food and using stockings and compression socks.

Homeopathy works very well for mild to moderate cases of varicose veins. It helps to reduce pain, control further varicosity, reduce swelling. Homeopathy also helps significantly in cases that have varicose ulcers. Homeopathic treatment is strongly recommended for all cases of varicose veins except for those which are truly surgical in nature.

What is varicose veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that commonly occur in the legs and feet. They develop when the valves within the veins, which are responsible for regulating blood flow, become weak or damaged. As a result, blood can pool in the affected veins, causing them to swell, bulge, and appear twisted or rope-like.

The primary cause of varicose veins is a condition called venous insufficiency. This condition occurs when the valves in the veins do not function properly, leading to blood flowing backward and pooling in the veins.

Causes of Varicose Veins

Weak or damaged valves: Veins have one-way valves that help blood flow in the correct direction, towards the heart. If these valves become weak or damaged, blood can flow backward and pool in the veins, leading to their enlargement.

Age: The risk of developing varicose veins increases with age. As people get older, the elasticity of the vein walls decreases, making them more prone to becoming stretched and varicose.

Gender: Women are more likely to develop varicose veins than men. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause can contribute to the development of varicose veins.

Pregnancy: The increased blood volume during pregnancy, combined with the pressure of the growing uterus on the veins in the pelvis, can lead to the development of varicose veins. Hormonal changes also play a role.

Family history: There is a genetic component to varicose veins. If your parents or close family members have them, you are more likely to develop them as well.

Prolonged standing or sitting: Occupations that require long periods of standing or sitting can increase the risk of varicose veins. Lack of movement hampers blood circulation, causing blood to pool in the veins.

Obesity: Excess weight puts added pressure on the veins, making them more susceptible to becoming varicose.

Lifestyle factors: Lack of exercise, a sedentary lifestyle, and a poor diet lacking in fiber can contribute to the development of varicose veins.

Symptoms of Varicose Veins

• Visible veins
• Achy or heavy feeling
• Swelling
• Itching or burning
• Skin changes
• Restless legs syndrome