Varicose veins are enlarged twisted veins.
Most commonly seen in legs.
Arteries supply pure blood to the whole body, veins push the impure blood to the heart so they have valves so the blood should not flow back. But when the valves become weak or damaged, blood can flow back and stagnate there, and the veins become stretched or twisted, resulting in varicosity.
Causes
Standing or sitting for a long time, sedentary lifestyle, old age, pregnancy, constipation, menopause, changes in hormone levels, genetics, etc. The main risk factor and cause for varicose veins is our unhealthy lifestyle which causes Obesity.
Prevention and management
- Follow a healthy diet and lifestyle.
- Remove the causes or take medical advice.
- Reduce your weight, and avoid constipation with proper food.
- Avoid continuous standing and sitting.
- Bring down your stress and relax.
- Keep legs elevated. Gentle massage with oil upwards, but do not press. Give rest to legs.
- Moderate physical exercises like aerobics for 20 minutes at least 5 days a week, Swimming, walking, cycling, yoga asana, pranayama, etc.
- Cut down on sodium-rich, salt, spicy, and oily food.
- Eat foods with fiber for better bowel movement.
- Drink enough water, and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks.
