Tackling Varicose Veins

They’re unsightly and uncomfortable – here’s how you can help the problem

- Natalia Lubomirski

Varicose veins are the enlarged blue lumps that most commonly appear on our legs and feet, often causing us to cover up even in warm weather. They might be small, but varicose veins can be a big problem; in fact, they can be the cause of embarrassment and even extreme pain. Are you suffering in silence? Stop! Find out how to deal with those pesky veins so you can flash your pins.

WHY DO WE GET THEM?

In a healthy vein, a series of tiny valves open and close to let our blood move through smoothly. ‘When these valves malfunction – due to weakening or damage – blood flows down the veins the wrong way,’ says venous expert Professor Mark Whiteley. This happens more commonly in our legs, as they have to work hard against gravity to send blood back to our heart, which means that they’re put under more strain. The blood pools in our veins, eventually causing them to become swollen and enlarged.

WHO’S AT RISK?