Varicose Legs and Compression Stockings
Bulging, painful varicose veins affect up to 25 percent of women. They’re unsightly, make standing on your feet difficult, and miniskirts are out of the question. For many women, though, suffering with varicose legs isn’t necessary. Here are some frequently asked questions about varicose vein treatment and compression stockings.
Why do varicose legs develop? What causes varicose veins?
The valves in your body’s system of veins help blood flow back to the upper body and prevent it from flowing backward toward the legs. When the valves weaken, though, blood can pool, causing the veins to expand and blue, lumpy knots known as varicose veins to develop.
Who gets varicose veins?
Heredity is a major factor in the development of varicose legs. People who spend a lot of time on their feet, pregnant women, those who fly extensively, and people who are overweight are also prone to varicose legs.
How bad can varicose legs get?
For many people, spider veins (precursor to varicose veins) or varicose veins don’t hurt - they’re just a cosmetic annoyance. For others, though, the veins can ache and make standing for any length of time difficult. In other cases, varicose legs could actually be an indicator of a more serious problem with the circulatory system.
How are varicose legs prevented?
There are a lot of easy ways that the average person can prevent varicose veins. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are key, since these two factors reduce the pressure on the legs and improve blood circulation.
Another varicose veins treatment: compression stockings. Some popular brands of compression stockings are Juzo, Jobst, Sigvaris, and Mediven. These stockings come in different strengths, or levels of compression. They work by gently squeezing the legs so blood can flow better.
