HealthBeat varicose veins naturally

Beat varicose veins naturally

Extract from horse chestnut can help with vein problems.
Extract from horse chestnut can help with vein problems.
Images source: © Getty Images | 2022 Getty Images

10:12 AM EST, January 13, 2024

Understanding the risks of varicose veins

Varicose veins commonly develop in the legs. They arise from amplified pressure and the force of blood pushing against the vein walls. This causes inflammation, stretching and weakening of the venous walls, stagnation of blood, and impairment of the venous valves.

Situations increasing the chances of developing varicose veins are genetic predispositions, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, use of hormonal contraception, obesity, past vein thrombosis, menopause, and advanced age.

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The symptoms of varicose veins feature swelling, a feeling of heaviness or fatigue in the legs, pain, muscle cramps, skin itching, discoloration, and the development of ulcers. If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to serious complications such as pulmonary artery embolisms and thrombophlebitis of both superficial and deep veins.

What can you do to help yourself?

Using horse chestnut extract (which reduces itching, decreases blood thickness, improves circulation, and has anti-inflammatory properties) and extracting from bitter orange (which constricts blood vessels, has antioxidant features, and reduces leg tiredness) may help.

The effectiveness of these extracts may vary based on individual factors and the severity of the vein issues. Consulting with a phlebologist is advised before beginning any supplemental, topical, or medication treatment. This specialist can evaluate your situation and suggest specific treatments or other methods such as sclerotherapy, laser therapy, or surgical removal of varicose veins.

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