It is well known that chronic venous disease has a negative influence on well-being, both psychologically and physically. The presence of varicose veins hurts the quality of life of patients, who without proper management of the disease may reach stages where they are unable to carry out daily activities. Fortunately, treatments are available that are designed to minimize the negative effects as well as their appearance.
Varicose veins are one of the most common medical conditions, with a prevalence ranging from 5-30% in the adult population, predominantly among females.
Several factors can influence the likelihood of developing varicose veins. The most common are:
Heredity – those with a family history of varicose veins are more likely to develop them.
Obesity – excess weight puts extra pressure on veins, making the risk of developing varicose veins higher.
Age – tissues weaken with age, menopause occurs and hormonal changes lead to varicose veins
Pregnancy – during the first trimester of pregnancy, 70-80% of women may develop varicose veins due to increased blood volume and dilation of the venous system. The growing fetus puts pressure on the veins, but varicose veins resulting during pregnancy are often transient
Prolonged sitting or standing – prolonged standing leads to overstraining of the legs and more pressure is put on the veins. This makes it harder for blood to circulate from the legs to the heart. Sitting makes it harder for the veins to return from the periphery, and this leads to tired, heavy legs, pain, pins and needles, and tingling in the calves.
Tobacco use – nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict, limiting blood flow.
The impact of varicose veins on quality of life
Pain – is one of the most common unpleasant symptoms of varicose veins. Varicose veins also cause itching, cramping, and a tired, heavy feeling in the legs. Because vein disease is progressive, these symptoms are likely to worsen over time.
Oedema – swelling occurs in the calves due to blood stagnation in the veins. The lymphatic system produces excess lymph to compensate for poor blood flow, some of which is absorbed by the tissues. The lymphatic system produces excess lymph to compensate for poor blood flow, some of which is absorbed by the tissues. These swellings are not only painful but also difficult to manage and remove.
Shame – the presence of varicose veins can cause both physical and psychological effects. Many people try to hide unsightly varicose veins under long clothes because they feel embarrassed. This embarrassment leads to low self-esteem. The appearance of varicose veins can cause significant mental health problems, including anxiety and depression.
Difficulty in daily activities – standing a lot at work causes pain, and swelling, which worsens symptoms. It’s hard to concentrate at work when you’re dealing with persistent pain.
What can be done to prevent or slow the development of varicose veins?
Compression stockings improve blood flow, reduce the risk of blood clots, and relieve symptoms of vein disease.
Weight loss can reduce pressure on the veins and lead to an improvement in symptoms.
The only time varicose veins may disappear is during pregnancy. Although varicose veins affect the valves and veins, their condition improves after childbirth. However, there are many cases where varicose veins persist afterward. Pregnancy is a risk factor for venous insufficiency, so regular check-ups with a specialist are necessary.
Exercise improves blood circulation and muscle tone, reducing the risk of developing varicose veins or additional ones forming. Exercise should include walking, leg lifts, cycling, calf stretches, leg bends, knee and ankle flexion. These exercises promote blood circulation, relieve pain and discomfort, and even help lower blood pressure.
The discomfort of varicose veins can be reduced by eating a diet high in antioxidants and fiber, as well as staying hydrated.
The sensation of heavy legs and pain can be relieved with varicose vein creams. A cream with natural ingredients will always be a good choice, thanks to the properties of plants that act naturally and naturally. VenoHelp varicose vein cream is an effective circulation-boosting solution to eliminate tired feelings in the legs and reduce swelling and pain caused by varicose veins. It is a remedy based on natural ingredients with bioactive components – castor oil, devil’s claw extract, vine leaf extract, wild chestnut extract, aloe vera juice extract, menthol, camphor, lanolin, vitamin E, eucalyptus oil, rosemary oil, panthenol – which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.