“Varicose Veins” is a prevalent medical condition for the aged, especially women. Owing to a poor lifestyle and with the growing age, the valves of certain veins in the leg and foot tend to break down. This hinders the blood flow back to the heart and adversely affects the circulatory system of the body.
Failure of the valves causes the blood in the affected veins to pool. These veins, called the varicose veins, are extremely painful and lead to severe swelling and itching in the legs and feet. Bluish purple in colour, enlarged in size, and clearly visible on the surface of the skin, varicose veins are not only uncomfortable but also have an unpleasant sight.
With the passage of time, these bulging varicose veins become the main reason for serious venous disorders and other acute complications of the circulatory system. If we make ourselves aware of the leading causes of varicose veins, we can surely delay their onset if not overrule the possibility of their occurrence. Let us learn about the root causes of varicose veins:
1. High Heels / Uncomfortable Footwear –
These days, it has become a common practice to wear high heels on a daily basis. Not just on festivities and parties, girls tend to wear uncomfortable footwear and stilettos to college and work every day. They may be able to look taller and smarter with the heels, but it causes extreme pain and has been proven to be immensely unfavourable for the legs and feet.
When in heels, the feet fail to land flat on the floor while standing or walking and this makes it difficult for the blood in the feet to travel up the legs and further to the heart. The veins tend to work harder to be able to efficiently send the blood back to the heart and this often results in the disruption of the valves in due course of time.
The vascular experts have sighted frequent use of high heels as one of the leading cause of varicose veins in women. They strongly recommend girls to wear heels only when it is absolutely necessary. At all other times, they must switch to flat footwear or flat heels called wedges.
2. Excessive Caffeine Intake –
Caffeine is present not only in coffee but also in tea, sodas and many other drinks as well. Caffeine consumption, in one form or the other, in excessive quantities and that too on a daily basis is a proven cause of varicose veins. It has been medically confirmed that caffeine intake massively increases the blood pressure and this restricts the movement of the blood through the blood vessels.
As a result, the people who drink black coffee, milk coffee, black tea, milk tea, lemon soda, flavoured sodas or other high on caffeine drinks, often complain of pain in the legs and a poor visual appeal. You must always consult your doctor to cross-confirm the amount of coffee that you can consume per day to reduce your chances of developing varicose veins.
3. Alcohol Consumption –
Drinking alcohol causes excessive urination and leads to dehydration. Water loss from the body causes the blood to thicken and this makes it tough for the blood to move, against the pull of the gravity, up from the feet and legs, back to the heart.
Any hindrance to the free movement of the blood in the circulatory system enhances the person’s probability of developing varicose veins. Faulty valves in the varicose veins also cause the blood to pool and may lead to worse ailments like ulcers, blood clots, deep vein thrombosis, and chronic venous insufficiency.
You must consult your doctor and discuss your alcohol intake limits based on your age, body type, and medical history of any other venous disorders. Always keep an eye on the visible signs of varicose veins and visit your vascular expert in case you witness a noticeable change.
4. Heredity and Genetics –
Varicose Veins have been discussed to be a genetic condition. If your parents, grandparents or siblings have had a history of spider veins or varicose veins, you are at high risk of developing them too.
This severe condition can be postponed if not totally avoided, by practicing a good lifestyle. You must always maintain a healthy body weight and exercise every day. Eating a balanced diet along with monitored intake of salt and sugar, and restricted fatty food intake can help keep the varicose vein condition under check.
By mentioning the family history of varicose veins, you can also consult your vascular expert about the suggested use of compressions stockings. These have been known to improve blood flow and prevent valve failures. Available in multiple sizes and shapes, you must choose the right one with the help of your doctor.
5. Your Occupation -
For a few people, varicose veins are also a conclusion of their harsh job routine. A person who has an occupation that demands him/her to keep sitting or standing for extended durations at a stretch on a daily basis develops a greater risk of varicose veins.
This rigid work routine stresses the veins and causes their valves to malfunction, thus leading to varicose veins. To reduce the chances of developing spider veins or varicose veins, you must take short strolls or sitting breaks once every while. Any form of mild exercise in between the hectic work schedule can also improve the condition.
Can Avis Hospitals Help?
With years of experience and a record of successfully treating over 4000 patients every year, Avis Hospitals is the most trusted vascular center of Hyderabad. Dr. Rajah V Koppala is an acclaimed vascular surgeon, highly trusted and respected for his services in his vast medical career.
If you are confused about the treatment options, charges and fees, risk factors or have any other queries, we will be happy to help you. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Rajah V Koppala at Avis Hospitals and we will ensure you are satisfied with our medical aid and care.