Lots of people around the UK and elsewhere across the globe suffer from varicose veins. This condition can be painful, and so it is no surprise that many individuals are on the lookout for ways to reduce their discomfort.
Some are turning to adjustable beds. It is now possible to invest in beds that offer vibration therapy, and this can help to increase blood circulation, thus relieving the pain.
What exactly are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged and swollen blood vessels. Typically, they are blue or dark purple in colour and they are often lumpy, bulging or twisted in appearance. The most common place on the body to find these veins is in the legs. While any vein in the body can become varicose, they are particularly likely to appear in the calves. This is because standing and walking puts added pressure on the veins in the lower body.
The problem develops when the small valves that are located inside the vessels stop functioning properly. In healthy veins, blood flows smoothly to the heart. It is prevented from travelling backwards by a series of small valves that open and close to let blood through. In contrast, when these valves are weakened or damaged, the blood is allowed to flow backwards and it can therefore collect in the vein, eventually causing it to swell.
The symptoms associated with the condition include aching, heavy and uncomfortable legs, muscle cramp in the legs and swollen feet and ankles.
Who do they affect?
There are certain factors that can increase people’s chances of developing varicose veins. For example, pregnancy can trigger the condition, as can old age and being overweight. The problem is common in the UK, affecting up to one in three individuals and women tend to be more prone to it then men.
What to do
In most cases, varicose veins do not present a serious problem to people’s health. Although they have an unpleasant appearance, they should not have an impact on circulation or cause long-term health issues. In instances like this, no treatment is required.
However, anyone who is suffering from pain as a result of their varicose veins can take action. The most common treatments include endothermal ablation, which is a treatment where heat is used to seal the affected veins, and sclerotherapy, which uses special foam to close the veins off. People may also be able to get a phlebectomy. This involves having surgery to remove the affected blood vessels.
Compression stockings can be useful too. They help to boost circulation in the legs and thus to reduce discomfort. Meanwhile, some individuals are making use of vibration therapy beds to enhance their circulation. It is now possible to buy these items quickly and easily over the web.
Taking action
By taking action in some way to address their pain, sufferers of varicose veins stand to boost their quality of life, and many of the available options are easy to take advantage of. It is certainly well worth people’s while looking into the treatments.
Anna Longdin writes regularly about health issues. She visits sites including Adjustamatic Beds Ltd to help ensure she stays up to date on all the latest medical news and developments.
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