Veins are an important part of the circulatory system in the human body. They are responsible for the return of oxygen-free blood from various parts of the body to the lungs and the heart. If these veins are unusually twisted, thick, or enlarged, they are called varicose veins. Although varicose veins can appear anywhere in the body, in most cases they tend to develop in the thighs and legs. In America, 36 percent of women and 19 percent of men are affected by this condition.
There are many theories that attempt to explain the causes of varicose veins. The condition appears to be inherited. This means that one of your parents has it and you are more likely to be affected by it. The consensus seems to be that they are caused by damaged or broken valves in the veins. The purpose of valves in a vein is to prevent blood from flowing back. Some in the medical field believe that some people inherit broken valves or insufficient valves in their veins. People without properly functioning valves or without valves in their veins have reversed blood in their veins when they stand up. Instead of being pushed back to the heart and lungs, some of the blood collects in the legs when standing.
Many factors can make this condition worse. Pregnancy is one of those factors. Pregnancy is known to increase blood volume, which worsens the condition. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone are increased during pregnancy. These hormones relax the walls of the veins, which can lead to varicose veins.
Seniority, old age and obesity are also factors that can make the situation worse. A person prone to varicose veins should avoid doing work that will maintain them for an extended period. Obesity is a completely preventable disease. A person who