How does veins work

This is why the pain and swelling due to varicose veins is often worse after standing or at the end of the day. Elastic support stockings compress the varicose veins and reduce the flow down them improving the circulation NB do not use stockings if you have bad arterial disease in the legs. Elevation of the legs whenever possible and avoiding long periods of standing will also help relieve the symptoms of varicose veins.

Being overweight raises the pressure in the leg veins so losing weight can also be very beneficial. Varicose veins are very common and with the help of the above measures many people do not need invasive treatment. If symptoms are severe however the varicose veins can be treated providing the deep veins are working well.

A small number of patients develop red flaky itchy skin with brown staining. If this occurs the above measures should be taken to help the venous circulation. If the problem persists then intervention ofr the varicose veins is probably indicated. In a small number of these severe cases an ulcer can form on the leg if there is no treatment at all. Again the above measures plus intervention in some cases will prevent ulcers or help ulcers that are already present to heal.

A thrombosis clot can form in the superficial veins and they become inflamed as a result. This is called phlebitis. The vein is red, swollen and painful. The condition usually resolves over 4 - 6 weeks. Painkillers, a supportive bandage or tubigrip may help. If it is severe and extensive seek medical advice. If the venous system in the leg fails to work normally see above the pressure in the leg veins rises. This damages the circulation in the lower leg particularly around the ankle leading to swelling, discomfort, skin changes and eventually ulceration.

Varicose veins, a previous DVT, or primary failure of the valves in the veins can all contribute to this. The simple measures described above elastic stockings, walking, avoiding standing, elevation, weight control are all very important in the management of this problem. Procedures on the veins may help, particularly if the problem is mainly in the superficial veins. Member Login Suggested links:. Home About Membership Membership. Benefits Categories Become a Member. Vascular Health.

Lifestyle Diet The Circulatory System. Rouleaux Club Yearbook The Circulatory System The circulatory system is made up of vessels and muscles that help and control the flow of the blood around the body. The small saphenous vein SSV collects blood from the outer foot and tracks straight up the back of the calf until it empties into the deep veins, usually just above the knee. Most patients with significant vein disease have failure of one or more of the valves in the saphenous veins or in a perforating vein.

These problems can be effectively treated with the modern office-based outpatient treatments at ERVC. Clovis E. Manley, MD. Evansville Regional Vein Center. Schedule A Consultation. Make an appointment today by calling VEIN Learn the answers to your questions.

Learn More. Insurance Information. Pregnancy is also another leading cause of spider and varicose veins. This is due to the massive spike in the hormone progesterone that occurs during pregnancy.

Progesterone causes valves to dilate and veins to stretch to deliver extra blood flow to the baby. Another cause of vein valve damage is increased vein blood pressure. This can be caused by a clot is lodged inside of a vein. In addition to genes and pregnancy, age, gravity and long periods of sitting or standing are the main factors behind spider and varicose veins. Therefore, it is important to not lead a sedentary lifestyle. Get regular exercise and avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time.

Your veins — and the rest of your body — will reap the rewards of an active life. For more insight on other vein issues, you can read more about significant health problems that start with vein issues or schedule a consultation to optimize your vein health today. Maintaining healthy veins is an important part of achieving optimal overall health. If your legs are cramping or you often experience swelling or numbness in your legs, you might have a vascular condition harming your vein circulation or causing vein Are you concerned about how your weight is affecting your health?

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