$Unique_ID{BRK02128}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Preventing Varicose Veins}
$Subject{varicose veins stripping muscular action exercise}
$Volume{}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1993  Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Preventing Varicose Veins


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  I can remember my mother's legs, crisscrossed with big bulging
veins, that she tried to conceal with thick ugly stockings.  It is beginning
to look like I may have inherited those genes, and would like to prevent those
varicose veins from ever developing.  Do I have a chance?  Can you help me
avoid the problems my mother went through?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  While you and your mother may share the same genetic makeup, a little
understanding of just how your veins work may provide you with the advantage
you need to prevent the recurrence of the past generation's experience.  The
veins are constructed to aid the return flow of blood to the heart, after some
of the force of the heart's beat has been used to push the blood through all
the tiny capillaries of the body.  The inside of veins are equipped with one
way valves, that permit blood to flow towards the heart, but prevent it from
flowing backward.  The force needed to propel the blood forward is partially
obtained from the muscles of the body contracting around the vein, providing
the squeeze that propels the blood forward.  In some cases, these valves
develop problems as we grow older, and the blood leaks backward putting more
pressure on the valve behind it.  The vein itself begins to bulge under the
pressure from the increased volume, and this in turn can pull the lower valve
away from the inside wall of the vein, producing another leak.  Between leaks
and bulges, the pattern of distended, unsightly veins develops into the
picture of varicose veins that you know so well.
     Preventing extra pressure on the veins of the leg, and enhancing muscular
action can do much to prevent the problem.  Anything which constricts the
veins such as garters or tight undergarments, is to be avoided.  Even crossing
your legs at the thighs can put additional, unwanted pressure on the veins, so
avoid that position.  Even sitting in the same position for long periods can
accent the problem.
     However, strong muscles that come from regular exercise work for you.
Each contraction of the muscles helps push the blood in the right direction
and prevents pooling within the veins.  Even a brisk walk can be helpful, and
using a work break to stride about is a habit you should develop, if your job
keeps you glued to a chair for extended periods.
     However a job that keeps you on your feet constantly is no help either,
for that maintains the weight of the blood on the valves.  If that is the
case, use your break periods to put your feet up, and elevate your feet above
your hips.  This will allow the pull of gravity to help and assist in
emptying veins that may have become over full.  For people who must remain on
their feet for hours without break, using good quality full length support
hose may be part of the answer.  They are not nearly so ugly today as they
were in your mother's day, and easily can be part of the most stylish outfit.
     If all fails, you can still take heart, as there are surgical techniques
that can help improve the cosmetic appearance of vein filled legs.  In one
procedure (stripping), the vein is removed from the leg, and the blood flow
then uses an alternate route through veins that lie deeper in the leg.  Veins
can also be collapsed, by injecting solutions into the vein which irritates
the tissue, causing a scar to form, which blocks the flow of blood, and causes
the vein to disappear.

----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.