Varicose Vein: Causes, Symptoms, and Home Remedies

What is Varicose Vein

Varicose vein, which in medical term is also known as varicosities or varicoses is a condition where the veins become dilated and overlarge due overfilling of the veins with blood. It is a painful condition where varicose veins commonly known as spider veins appear bluish-purple in color and raised and swollen. It may also appear red in color.

This condition commonly affects women, especially those who are above 50 years of the age. The commonest site of varicose veins is the lowers legs. However, any other vein may also be affected.

Varicose Vein

Varicose Vein

In many people, varicose vein does not cause much discomfort and the condition is mild thus it only affects the appearance. But in some, they become a major concern as they cause discomfort and pain. In fact, in some cases, it may be an indication of circulatory issues that may prove to be fatal.

What are the Causes of Varicose Vein

Varicose veins happen when the veins stop functioning properly. Anatomically, our veins have valves that prevent the backward flow of the blood. In the case where these valves fail to function properly, it results in the collection of the blood in the vein.

This condition is common in the lower the legs as being far from your heart and against gravity the upward flow of the blood becomes hard. Also, while standing and walking the pressure on the veins of the lower body increases and increases the risk of varicose vein.

 

Causes of Varicose Vein

Causes of Varicose Vein

Some common causes for varicose veins are congenital and chronic heart valve diseases, menopause, pregnancy, standing for long durations, pressure on the abdomen and midsection, obesity and old age. Heredity may also play an important role in the development of varicose veins.

What are the Symptoms of the Varicose Veins

In a few cases, there may not be any discomfort or pain as varicose may be mild. However, there may be bulging of pink, blue or purple veins that may be of cosmetic concern.

But in other cases, there may be pain along with heaviness in the legs. Pina may also be of throbbing or cramping character accompanied by swelling and burning.

Symptoms of the Varicose Veins

Symptoms of the Varicose Veins

Usually, pain gets Worse on standing for a long duration or after sitting. You may find veins itchy but it is better to refrain yourself from scratching them hey may bleed. Sometimes, the veins get hard along with inflammation or discoloration of the surrounding skin

The presence of ulcers indicates a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Do not confuse varicose veins with spider veins as they are smaller and close to the surface of the skin

What are the Home Remedies to Treat Varicose Vein

Treatment of varicose is very important or it may result in the formation of ulcers, bleed or blood clots. The treatment process involves both self-care measures as well as procedures recommended by the doctor. Below in this article we will discuss certain home remedies to treat varicose vein.

What are the Home Remedies to Treat Varicose Vein

1. Apple Cider Vinegar- It acts like wonders for the treatment swelling and heaviness caused due to varicose veins. Being a natural cleanser, it also promotes the blood circulation.

Apply apple cider vinegar in undiluted form directly on the varicose veins and massage gently. Repeat this every day before sleeping and also in the morning for a few months.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar

You may also drink the solution by mixing a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 1 glass of water. Drink this preparation 2 times a day for a month to get amazing results.

2. Compression socks- They are easily available in the pharmacy shops. They are designed to apply pressure on the legs uniformly. They are especially helpful in the cases where enlargement of the veins is caused due to the loss of elasticity.

The compression socks provide a consistent and gentle pressure on the veins, which makes the valves work efficiently and prevents the blood backflow. Also, it provides a support to the walls of veins to promote the blood flow, This, in turn, reduces the risk of blood clot.

Compression socks

Compression socks

Better wear these socks in the initial stages of varicose to prevent the further progress. Other compression garments are also available in the market, but it is always better to consult your doctor before using them.

3. Cayenne Pepper- You will be really amazed by the miracle treatment cayenne pepper may give you in the case of varicose veins. It is rich in bioflavonoids and vitamin C. Thus it promotes the circulation of blood and also reduces pain and swelling
Mix a teaspoon of cayenne pepper and add it to 1 cup of lukewarm water. Stir well and drink it three times in a day. Continue this for 2 to 3 months.

 Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne Pepper

4, Fuller’s earth- Mud packs of the fuller earth will not only reduce the swelling and enlargement of the vein but also reduces the pain. Just mix the fuller earth with the amount of water to make a paste and apply to the legs sleeping. On drying, the clay gets tightened and works like compression socks. Rinse off the mud pack in the morning with lukewarm water.

Fuller's earth

Fuller’s earth

5. Olive oil massage- It promotes blood circulation, and reduces pain and swelling. Repeat this 2 times a day for 20 minutes daily.

Olive oil massage

Olive oil massage

Dr. Ritu Kumari Gupta
Dr. Ritu Kumari Gupta:  Professionally a homeopathic doctor and a dietician Dr. Ritu Kumari Gupta is passionate about writing health and parenting blogs. She believes in holistic approach towards health and well being.