Dear Doc
I have varicose veins and recently they seem to be getting bigger. I sit at my job all day and I wonder how I can help my problem.- Stephanie.
Dear Stephanie,
Thank you for your question as this is a frequent issue. Varicose veins also known as Chronic Venous Insufficiency is when the blood in the veins has a difficult time returning to the heart and therefore tends to pool in the legs. It often causes pain, numbness, the sensation of heaviness in the legs, and over time can lead to ulcers. The earlier it is addressed the better.
It is commonly seen in individuals who stand for prolonged hours or sit with their legs hanging down as in your case.
Our legs have veins that return blood from the feet to the heart and some of which are close to their surface of the skin.
These veins have valves in them which open and close and push blood back up to the heart. The pushing of the blood can be helped with exercise as the surrounding muscles contract and squeeze.
Secondly, the movement of the blood in the veins can be aided by elevating our legs as often as possible. When lying down have your legs elevated. While sitting at your desk put a small stool underneath to keep your legs from hanging down.
Thirdly, invest in compression stockings. These have different pressure levels and sizes and are available at all physiotherapy stores.
Lastly there are some medications that scientifically are not a hundred per cent proven, but anecdotally some patients have claimed benefit. Please discuss with your physician for more information.
