Varicose Veins (Heart & Circulation)

Signs and Symptoms of Varicose Veins (Heart & Circulation)
1. Swollen, twisted clusters of purple or blue veins.
2. Swollen legs.
3. An ache or heavy feeling in the legs.
4. Itching around affected veins.
5. Brown discoloring of skin.
6. Sores.

Types of Visible Veins

There are various kinds of visible veins apart from varicose veins.

Telengiectasias: These are also called spider or thread veins which are smaller (less than 1 mm) and closer to the skin. These are red or blue in colour and are commonly seen in legs or face.

Corona phlebectatica: These are also smaller veins distributed in a fan shaped pattern. These are commonly seen around foot and ankle.

Reticular veins: These are larger than the previously described veins (1-3 mm) and closer to the skin. These are usually blue in colour. Reticular veins spread in a mesh pattern and cover a larger skin area.

What to Do Now
1. Wear elastic support stockings, available at most drugstores.
2. Stay off your feet as much as possible.
3. When you need to stand for long periods, take frequent breaks to sit down and put your feet up.

When to Call a Doctor
1. If you have cut a varicose vein-it may bleed heavily. First lie down, elevate the injured leg, and apply gentle, firm pressure with a clean cloth. Get help as soon as possible after the bleeding has slowed.
2. If varicose veins make walking or standing painful.
3. If you develop sores.

How to Prevent It
1. If your are overweight, take steps to loose the extra pounds.
2. Exercise regularly. Activities that work the leg muscles, such as walking or jogging, help pump blood toward the heart.
3. Don’t wear tight clothing.
4. Don’t cross your legs.
5. Avoid long periods of sitting or standing.
6. Sit or lie down and elevate your legs to about hip level at least twice a day for 30 minutes at a time.