Vein insufficiency is widespread and can become noticeable through spider veins and varicose veins. Find out here which other symptoms can indicate venous insufficiency and how weak veins are treated.
Table of Contents
What is venous insufficiency?
In the case of venous insufficiency (venous insufficiency), the function of the deep veins in the legs is disturbed. Venous insufficiency occurs when the venous valves no longer close properly. These ensure that the blood in the legs flows back to the heart and does not sag into the foot. In the case of venous insufficiency, however, the blood can no longer be transported properly from the leg veins, resulting in increased venous blood pressure and congestion in the legs. Visually, these are noticeable through spider veins or varicose veins , since the accumulated blood dilates the blood vessels.
Signs of weak veins
- pain in the affected areas
- Heavy, tired, also “restless” legs
- Swollen ankles
- Muscle and calf cramps
- Appearance of spider veins (small veins that shine bluish through the skin)
- Reddish, itchy and burning eczema
- Slowed wound healing
- Thinner and more sensitive skin
- With advanced venous insufficiency: brownish discoloration of the skin on the lower legs and ankles.
Weak veins: causes of venous insufficiency
There can be various reasons why the venous valves no longer work. Age, family predisposition, obesity, activities that require you to sit or stand a lot are considered risk factors . Furthermore, venous thrombosis can cause increased pressure in the leg veins and damage the venous valves. Women have venous insufficiency more often than men. The female hormones and the softer connective tissue are responsible for this.
Treatment of venous insufficiency
The treatment of venous insufficiency depends on its severity. All measures are aimed at improving blood circulation in the veins.
- In the case of mild venous insufficiency, it helps those affected to elevate their legs for about half an hour several times a day to improve blood circulation.
- Compression therapy is also advisable for venous insufficiency. Compression stockings compress the veins to prevent blood from backing up.
- Another tip for keeping your veins fit is regular exercise : endurance sports such as jogging, cycling or swimming are ideal because they work the leg muscles, which in turn support the venous system in transporting blood back. Vein gymnastics can be wonderfully integrated into everyday life, for example when we are sitting at a desk or have to wait for the bus at the bus stop. Exercises such as tipping your toes or rocking your feet allow the blood flow to improve in a targeted manner and stimulate vein activity.
- A high-fiber diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grain products and fish is also important.
- In the case of pronounced symptoms, your doctor can prescribe drainage medication , and in severe cases sclerotherapy or surgical removal of the varicose veins can also be considered.
