Varicose veins are the name given to the dilation of veins, primarily occurring in the legs. This condition, known as venous insufficiency, is often observed in individuals with a sedentary lifestyle. In the continuation of our article, you will find detailed answers to various questions such as the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures of this condition.
The disease manifests in both veins and capillaries. The discomfort referred to as actual varicose veins is observed in veins. These dilations, which can cause various complaints, should be prevented and treated as they can lead to more serious problems if left unchecked.
Why Do Varicose Veins Occur?
Varicose veins occur when the valves inside the veins, responsible for transporting impure blood to the heart, are damaged for various reasons.
But what is the role of these valves?
The valves prevent the blood from staying down due to gravity and ensure that it is pumped upward, preventing it from flowing back down. However, when the valves are damaged, unfortunately, they cannot fulfill their function entirely, causing some of the blood to flow back and accumulate, leading to the dilation of veins, i.e., the formation of varicose veins.
Causes of Varicose Vein Formation
The most common cause, as seen in many health problems, is genetic. If there is a varicose vein condition in either the mother or father, especially in the mother, the likelihood of the condition occurring in the individual is high. Another frequently seen cause is inactivity. It is commonly observed in individuals who work continuously in a standing or sitting position. It can also be encountered in people who sit constantly at home for various reasons, even if they do not work. In addition to these, factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption, excess weight, standing in excessively hot environments, pregnancy, and lifting heavy objects for work play a role in the formation of varicose veins.
Who Is at Risk?
- Those with a family history of varicose vein disease are more prone to the condition. However, this does not necessarily mean that every person with a family history of varicose veins will develop the condition. It can also occur in individuals with no history of vein enlargement in their families.
- It is frequently observed in individuals who work for long hours standing or sitting without taking breaks or moving their legs. For example, barbers, teachers, and surgeons may experience this. It is essential to move your feet and legs or walk at certain intervals while standing or sitting to aid blood circulation.
- It is more common in women than men. This is due to pregnancy and childbirth. Factors such as changes in the mother’s eating habits and restricted movements during pregnancy contribute to this. In many people, varicose veins may disappear after childbirth.
- Individuals with excess weight may experience varicose veins because the load on their legs is higher, leading to valve damage. Therefore, losing excess weight is essential for health, as excess weight is a factor that opens the door to many health problems, including varicose veins.
- Hot environments like saunas, thermal baths, and beaches can cause the veins to dilate, so it is advisable to stay away from these hot places and not visit them frequently. Unfortunately, extremely hot water during showers can also cause vein dilation. Therefore, it is recommended to take showers with lukewarm water.
Those who have or do not want to have varicose veins can largely prevent them by adhering to the mentioned points.
