The two most common causes of varicose veins are age and pregnancy, but there are some other factors that can contribute to varicose veins, including the position in which a person sits on a regular basis. Although varicose veins can technically occur in any part of the body, they most commonly occur in the legs. This is because it is in the legs that veins have to work against gravity to return blood up through the legs and back to the heart. Pressure that occurs in the lower extremities can cause veins to become enlarged, sometimes gnarled, and often visible or even protruding from under the skin.
Most of the causes of varicose veins cannot be avoided. If a woman decides to become pregnant and have a baby, she is at the risk of developing varicose veins. Unfortunately, the other main cause of varicose veins, aging, cannot be avoided. Whatever the causes of varicose veins, there are a few things that can be done to lessen the development of these kinds of veins and, for people who experience pain in their varicose veins, may also lessen the amount of pain that they experience. Getting plenty of exercise and dropping any extra weight will both promote blood circulation in the legs and reduce the amount of pressure on the legs, which is one of the key causes of varicose veins.
It has also been suggested that wearing high heels and clothing that is very tight about the legs can aggravate the varicose veins, so wearing these kinds of clothes for long periods of time should be avoided. Some doctors also suggest that people should avoid sitting with their legs crossed as this can increase the pressure in the legs. When possible, taking a few breaks during the course of the day to lay down with the legs elevated above the heart is also a good way to fight varicose veins. This can be done by fitting two or three pillows under the knees.
Although most of the causes of varicose veins are unavoidable, there are treatments and remedies for varicose veins. Some people used compression stockings, which can be purchased at most pharmacies, to improve circulation in their legs. Other people work with their doctors to choose a procedure or surgery to reduce the size, appearance, or presence of varicose veins.