You probably expect certain changes as you grow older. It may be harder to lose weight, your skin feels dryer, and you may find you need to use reading glasses. What you may not expect, though, is more prominent veins. It makes sense, because as we age, our bodies experience wear and tear, and that includes our circulatory systems. Varicose veins may also be caused by prolonged standing or even genetics. The bulging, ropey veins known as varicose veins affect millions of people globally, and they are not just a cosmetic concern. Left untreated, these unsightly veins can become uncomfortable as well, which can lead to serious health issues for some people.
Of course, varicose veins don’t just happen as people age, and they don’t start out huge and ropey. Your vascular system is vast, with about 60,000 miles of arteries, veins, and capillaries. Your heart has to push blood through these miles and miles of vessels, and certain conditions can make this more difficult. Problems occur when the blood vessels work less efficiently than they should, making them unable to help the heart move all that blood. Healthy veins have one-way valves, which enable them to keep blood flowing back towards the heart. These little valves work in tandem with your heart and other muscles to keep the blood circulating. This is especially important in the legs, where gravity is working against the process of getting the blood back up to the heart. When ageing, the hormones associated with pregnancy and other changes, obesity, genetics, or even too much standing interfere with your ability to keep this blood moving, the valves can weaken and allow blood to pool in the veins of the legs or feet.
If your veins are bulging, or you notice strange spider veins on your ankles and feet, you may easily recognize these symptoms as signs of varicose veins. However, they are not the only ones you should be careful to notice. If your ankles, legs, or feet begin to swell, or you notice aching or heaviness after a prolonged period of standing or sitting, it could be varicose veins. You might also become aware of cramping or throbbing in the legs, itching or burning near the affected veins, or skin discoloration. Your symptoms may worsen at night. If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor, because untreated varicose veins can result in complications like ulcers, edema, and uncontrolled bleeding.
If you are diagnosed before your varicose veins become severe, you may be able to control them and keep them from getting worse through lifestyle changes. Losing weight, engaging in regular exercise, and avoiding cigarettes and tobacco are all good ways to improve symptoms and slow the progression of varicose veins. Your doctor may also recommend wearing compression hose and avoiding long periods of sitting or standing. If the condition has progressed further than can be managed by lifestyle changes, you may benefit from procedures like:
When you are looking for expert care in treating vascular conditions, the talented team of the top vein specialists at Twin Lakes Heart Center are here for you. Since 1993, we have been providing cardiovascular care for the community in Boca Raton, offering unparalleled care through a preventative, patient-centered approach. We are committed to building life-long relationships with our patients, helping them achieve a heart-healthy lifestyle. By adopting leading-edge technologies and taking a comprehensive heart health approach to heart disease, we are able to provide enhanced outcomes for a wide range of cardiovascular conditions. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us through our website.
