Let’s learn about varicose veins, their main causes and easy ways to manage them without medications.
Varicose veins are more than just twisted, bulging veins on the legs; they are a sign that your body’s blood circulation system is struggling and needs attention fast. While they are extremely common (especially in women), most people don’t fully understand why they happen or how to manage varicose veins effectively.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins occur when the veins in your legs weaken, and the tiny valves inside them stop working properly. These valves normally push blood upward (towards the heart). But when they become weak, blood begins to pool in the veins causing significant problems.
This makes the veins:
- Swell
- Twist
- Bulge
- Turn dark blue or purple
You may also feel heaviness, pain, or burning in the legs.
Why Do Varicose Veins Happen? (The Science)
Veins carry blood upwards, fighting gravity.
To do this, they rely on:
- Healthy valves
- Strong vein walls
- Good leg muscle support
If any of these fail, blood falls back down and accumulates in the veins, leading to varicosities.
Fun fact: Your calf muscles act as a “second heart.” Every time you walk, they squeeze the veins and push blood upward. This is why a sedentary lifestyle is one of the strongest hidden causes of varicose veins.
Common Causes of Varicose Veins
1. Genetics
If even one parent had varicose veins, your chances increase by 40–60%. Genetics is the most significant risk factor, exceeding weight and lifestyle
2. Prolonged Standing
People who stand for long hours, like teachers, retail workers, factory workers, chefs, often develop vein weakness
3. Sitting for Long Hours
Desk jobs reduce calf muscle activity and make valves weaker.
4. Pregnancy
Increases blood volume + hormonal changes cause vein relaxation.
5. Obesity
Extra weight puts pressure on the veins.
6. Hormonal Changes
Common in women due to estrogen/progesterone fluctuations.
Symptoms: How to Know If It’s Varicose Veins
Visible Signs
- Twisted, bulging, rope-like veins
- Dark blue, purple, or greenish color
Internal Symptoms
- Heaviness in legs
- Aching or throbbing
- Swelling in the ankles
- Burning or cramping sensation
- Pain is worse in the evenings
- Itching around the veins
Less-Known Early Sign
Many people first notice dry, itchy skin around the affected vein. This is due to poor blood circulation.
Types of Varicose Veins
- Trunk Varicose Veins: Large, bulging veins are visible on the legs.
- Reticular Veins: Smaller, thinner veins are often on the back of the knee.
- Spider Veins: Tiny red or purple clusters; mild but often early indicators.
What Makes Varicose Veins Worse? (Hidden Triggers)
Many people unknowingly worsen their condition with daily habits like.
- Crossing legs for long time
- Wearing high heels
- Long showers with very hot water
- Sitting with feet hanging down
- Tight jeans or leggings
- Sleeping without elevating the legs
- Lack of hydration
- Constipation (increases abdominal pressure)
Simple, Effective Home Treatments
These remedies are recommended by physiotherapists and vascular specialists for early and moderate cases of varicose veins, and using them can make a big difference.
1. Elevation Therapy (Most Underestimated Treatment)
Raise your legs above heart level for 10–15 minutes daily.
Benefits:
- Reduces swelling
- Decreases heaviness
- Improves vein valve function
Try to do this twice a day if possible. You can also use JSB BS33 Leg Elevation Pillow which is designed precisely for this. Click below to view the product
2. Daily Leg Massage
Massage helps to:
- Improve blood flow
- Reduce dryness
- Relieve heaviness
- Loosen tight muscles
Always massage upward, from foot to thigh. This follows the natural direction of blood flow.
Using tools like JSB leg massagers helps a lot. Check them here:
3. Compression Stockings
These are one of the most recommended non-surgical treatments.
Benefits:
- Prevent blood pooling
- Improve valve function
- Reduce swelling and pain
Tip:
Use doctor-prescribed pressure levels (mild, moderate, strong).
4. Exercise (Even Simple Walking Helps)
Best exercises:
- Walking
- Cycling
- Calf raises
- Swimming
- Yoga (Legs-Up-the-Wall pose)
Avoid:
Heavy weight lifting, intense jumping, or long running without breaks.
5. Heat + Cold Rotation
Warm compress:
- Relaxes veins and muscles
- Reduces stiffness
Cold compress:
- Controls swelling
Using a heating pad in the evening is especially helpful for heaviness.
6. Weight Management
Every extra kilogram of body weight adds more pressure on the leg veins. Even a 5-6 kg weight loss can significantly reduce symptoms.
7. Hydration & Diet Support
Water helps maintain good blood viscosity.
Foods that support vein health:
- Citrus (vitamin C strengthens veins)
- Beetroot (improves nitric oxide)
- Garlic
- Leafy greens
- Berries
- Omega-3 foods
What NOT To Do If You Have Varicose Veins
- Do not sit or stand continuously for more than 45 minutes.
- Avoid high heels for long hours.
- Don’t apply very strong pressure directly on bulging veins.
- Avoid squatting for long; it slows blood flow.
- Do not ignore persistent pain or swelling.
Varicose veins are one of the most common yet least understood circulatory problems. But with the right care, daily massage, proper diet, movement, and posture correction, most people can manage symptoms effectively at home.
Check out this blog to know more: Air Compression Leg Massagers for Swelling and Varicose Veins