If you suffer from varicose veins, you know how uncomfortable and unsightly they can be. But don’t worry, there are a few easy remedies that you can try to help reduce the appearance and make them less noticeable. In this post, we are going to cover some of the most effective home remedies. From lifestyle changes to natural treatments, you’ll find something that can help you get your varicose veins under control. Keep reading to learn more!
Indian Names
Varicose veins is also known as apasphit shira/ suje huye nas (Hindi/Urdu), fugun kadak zalelya nasa / ghathi (Marathi), Curul cirai nalankalil (Tamil). It is a condition in which veins become enlarged, dilated or thickened. Varicose veins are swollen and twisted veins, most commonly found in the legs but also in the rectum (where they are known as hemorrhoids), the scrotum, and the esophagus. It is different from spider veins. Spider veins are smaller and involve the capillaries instead of the veins. They usually show up on the surface of the skin like a spider web and can be blue or red in color. These veins most often occur on the legs, but they can become present on the face as well.
Root Causes
Veins carry circulated impure blood back to the heart so that it can be filled with oxygen again and used by the body. To keep blood moving toward the heart, veins have a valve. When this valve becomes weak or damaged, some blood can pool in the veins and swell. These varicose veins are then visible under the skin, most often in the legs. The swelling is caused by a weakness in the valves of the veins, which leads to increased pressure on the vein walls. This can be the result of deep vein thrombosis, obesity, pregnancy, prolonged sitting or standing, constipation, prolapse, lack of exercise, smoking, wearing tight clothing or it may be hereditary. Pregnancy may cause varicose veins due to increased pressure in the pelvis and abdomen, which slows down the flow of blood from the lower extremities to the heart. The veins of the legs are the largest in the body and they carry the blood from the lower extremities upwards towards the heart. The direction of circulation in these vessels is largely determined by gravity. Some common symptoms includes extremely sore, swollen, and tender veins, swelling of the legs, bruising and discoloration, burning sensation, aching calves, irritated and flaky skin. In severe cases, a vein may rupture and bleed. Blood collecting in the lower part of the legs and the skin becomes purplish and pigmented, leading to what is known as varicose eczema or varicose ulcers. Both conditions cause severe pain.
6 Great Home Remedies for Varicose Veins
- Reduces Swelling: Boil 1 cup water. Add 1 teaspoon (4 g) dried horse chestnut seeds and simmer for 15 minutes. Allow the tea to cool. Soak a piece of clean gauze or cloth in the mixture and apply to irritated tissue as needed. Horse chestnut seed extract is a traditional treatment for varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Constituents are anti-inflammatory, astringent, and a tonic to veins, which reduces swelling and bleeding. Horse chestnut may also be applied to the skin overlying varicose veins as a lotion, ointment, or gel.
- Improves Blood Flow and Circulation: Gotu kola infusions, taken as a beverage, will improve circulation in the legs and treat varicose veins. Gotu kola is a small creeping plant grows in the wild throughout India.
- A mustard poultice may help to encourage circulation in the area.
- Tighten Irritated Tissues: Apply witch hazel externally (as a decoction, tincture, or cream) for the treatment. Witch hazel tones and tightens irritated and over relaxed tissue. Either witch hazel water or cream makes a first-rate application for varicose veins and hemorrhoids, controlling inflammation and toning distended veins. Thread veins can also benefit.
- Soothe Muscular Cramp: Cypress is a circulatory tonic, which can improve poor circulation, relieve fluid retention, and soothe muscular cramp, and can be applied gently to varicose veins. Add 5 drops cypress and 10 drops geranium oil to 5 teaspoons (25ml.) vegetable oil. Starting at the ankle, gently stroke up the legs toward the heart.
- Treat Circulatory Problems Naturally: The juice or extract of blackcurrant can be taken daily for several months to help improve circulatory problems, such as capillary fragility and varicose veins. Blackcurrant has high levels of antioxidant anthocyanins, the fruit and leaves can be taken long term as a treatment to strengthen the circulation, including the capillaries.
Tips to Prevent Varicose Veins
- Raw beetroot should be eaten daily, for its healing and strengthening action.
- When on a long plane or train trip get up and walk around every half an hour. If on a long trip by car, stop once in a while and get out to stretch your legs.
- Increase your intake of dietary fiber, which will prevent constipation.
- Walking is beneficial as the movements of leg muscles help push the blood upwards.
- Increase your intake of vitamins E and C, and bioflavonoids, which improve blood vessel health. Dark-colored berries, such as blackberries and blueberries, and cherries contain anthocyanins and vitamin C, as well as other beneficial nutrients for health.
- When you are reading or watching television, elevate your feet and rest your legs on a chair or stool.
- Sleeping with feet raised slightly above the level of the heart helps the blood flow away from ankles.
FAQs.
Q. What is the treatment for varicose veins? Can it fully be treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases can be managed with lifestyle changes, such as wearing supportive stockings and exercising regularly. Other treatments may include sclerotherapy, laser therapy, and microphlebectomy. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.
Q. What causes varicose or spider veins?
Varicose veins and spider veins are caused by weakened valves in the veins. This can be due to a variety of factors, including obesity, pregnancy, a sedentary lifestyle, age, genetic predisposition, and hormonal fluctuations.
Q. What is the difference between varicose veins and spider veins?
Varicose veins are large, swollen, and twisted veins that are visible through the skin, while spider veins are much smaller, thin, and red or blue veins that are visible through the skin. Spider veins are typically found on the face and legs, while varicose veins are most often found on the legs. Varicose veins are caused by weakened valves in the veins, while spider veins are caused by increased pressure in the veins. Varicose veins can be painful and may cause aching and swelling, while spider veins usually cause no symptoms.
Q. What do varicose veins look like?
This condition shows enlarged and twisted veins that often appear as blue, purple, or skin-colored cords running just beneath the surface of the skin. They are commonly found on the legs and feet.
Q. Is there any natural treatment for it? Are varicose veins curable without surgery?
Yes, there are several natural treatments. The most common include: exercising regularly to increase circulation; wearing compression stockings; elevating the legs; avoiding prolonged standing or sitting; eating a high-fiber diet; avoiding tight clothing; and taking herbal supplements such as horse chestnut, witch hazel, and butcher’s broom.
Q. Can it be cured with apple cider vinegar?
No, apple cider vinegar cannot cure the condition. They are caused by weakened or damaged valves and veins in the legs, and the only way to get rid of them is through medical treatment, such as laser therapy or sclerotherapy.
Q. Is it safe to massage varicose veins?
No, it is not safe to massage it. Massaging can increase the pressure in the veins, which can worsen the condition. It is best to consult with a doctor before attempting any type of massage or therapy.
Q. Can massage therapy cure varicose veins?
Massage therapy cannot cure it, but it can help reduce the symptoms associated with them, such as swelling, pain, and cramping. Massage therapy can also help improve circulation in the area, which may reduce the appearance of the veins. It is important to speak to your doctor before trying any massage therapy treatment.
Q. Is walking good for varicose veins?
Yes, walking can be beneficial. It helps to increase circulation in the legs, which can reduce the pressure on the veins and help to reduce the symptoms. Additionally, walking can help to strengthen the muscles in the legs, which can help to support the veins and prevent them from becoming more swollen and painful.
Q. Do compression socks help to avoid varicose veins?
Compression socks can help reduce the appearance, but they do not completely eliminate them. Compression socks work to improve circulation and reduce swelling in the legs, which can help reduce the visibility of varicose veins. However, other lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, proper nutrition, and weight management, are also important for preventing and managing the condition.
Q. Are varicose veins serious?
It can be serious if left untreated. They can cause pain, swelling, and skin ulcers. In severe cases, they can lead to blood clots which can cause serious health complications. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing any symptoms related to varicose veins.
Q. How do I know if I have varicose veins?
Varicose veins are typically visible under the skin, appearing as raised and distorted veins that are dark blue or purple in color. They are most commonly found on the legs, though they can also appear on the face, neck, or elsewhere. To diagnose, a doctor will typically perform a physical exam and use imaging tests, such as ultrasound, to confirm the diagnosis.
Q. Will varicose veins go away on their own?
No, it usually do not go away on their own. It is important to seek medical advice from a doctor if you are concerned about varicose veins. Treatment options are available that can help reduce the appearance and improve symptoms.
Q. What yoga postures help with varicose veins?
- Tree Pose (Vrksasana)
- Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana)
- Triangle Pose (Trikonasana)
- Extended Puppy Pose (Uttana Shishosana)
- Wide-Legged Forward Bend (Prasarita Padottanasana)
- Reclining Big Toe Pose (Supta Padangusthasana)
- Half Lord of the Fishes Pose (Ardha Matsyendrasana)
- Half Moon Pose (Ardha Chandrasana)
- Wide-Legged Seated Forward Bend (Upavistha Konasana)
- Camel Pose (Ustrasana)
Q. Are there vitamins you can take to improve varicose veins?
Yes, there are vitamins that can help improve the condition. Vitamin C, Hesperidin, and Rutin have been shown to be beneficial. Additionally, Omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E can help reduce inflammation, which can help reduce the severity.
Q. Do ice packs help varicose veins?
Ice packs can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the area, but they cannot treat the condition directly. Compression stockings are typically recommended to treat it, as they help to increase circulation in the legs, which can reduce the appearance of the veins.
Q. Can varicose veins burst?
Yes, it can burst, which is a medical emergency. This is known as varicose vein rupture, and it can cause severe pain and bleeding. If you suspect that you have a burst varicose vein, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Q. What is the ayurvedic treatment for varicose veins?
The ayurvedic treatment for varicose veins includes the use of herbs such as Guggulu, Guduchi, Pippali, Shatavari, Amalaki, and Ginger, as well as various other natural remedies such as calf exercises, sesame oil massage, and avoiding standing for long periods of time. These treatments can help to improve the blood circulation and reduce the swelling, pain, and discomfort.
Q. How can varicose veins cause vertigo?
Varicose veins are not directly related to vertigo. However, they can cause symptoms that can be similar to vertigo, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and confusion. This is because the varicose veins can cause a decrease in the amount of blood flowing to the brain, resulting in these symptoms. In some cases, it can even cause a drop in blood pressure, which can also lead to similar symptoms.
Q. Can you get rid of it through intense exercise?
No, intense exercise cannot get rid of varicose veins. The condition is caused by weakened valves in the veins that allow blood to pool. Exercise can help improve circulation, but it will not get rid of the veins themselves. Treatment options include sclerotherapy, laser treatments, and surgery.
Q. What are the types of it?
- Reticular veins: These are small, twisted, superficial veins that are usually blue or purple in color. They are commonly found on the legs and feet.
- Spider veins: These are small, superficial veins that appear as thin, web-like lines on the skin. They are typically red or blue in color.
- Varicose veins: These are larger, swollen veins that often appear as bulging, rope-like cords. They are usually blue or purple in color.
- Venous lakes: These are soft, bluish-purple lumps that can appear on the legs and feet. They are caused by the pooling of blood in dilated veins.
Q. Can garlic be eaten to try and get rid of varicose veins?
There is no scientific evidence to support the use of garlic for the treatment. Therefore, it is not recommended to use garlic for this purpose.
Q. Does drinking water help varicose veins?
Yes, drinking plenty of water can help to reduce the symptoms. It helps to keep the veins hydrated, which can help to reduce swelling and discomfort. Additionally, staying hydrated can help to improve circulation, which can help to reduce the visibility of varicose veins.
Q. Will varicose veins go away if I lose weight?
It is possible that losing weight can help improve the appearance, but it may not completely get rid of them. Varicose veins can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition and aging. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for your individual situation.
Q. What are the different stages of this condition?
- Telangiectasia: Small, dilated red, blue or purple veins appear near the surface of the skin.
- Reticular Veins: Larger, blue or purple veins become visible, often bulging from the skin.
- Varicose Veins: These veins become swollen, twisted and enlarged, and may cause aching, throbbing or burning sensations.
- Advanced: Ulcers or sores may form on the skin due to the accumulation of fluid. Severe cases may require medical intervention.