Babies and Dolls

Varicose veins are swollen veins that may bulge near the surface of the skin. Approximately 25 percent of women and 15 percent of men in the United States have varicose veins. Many women develop varicose veins during pregnancy. In fact, it has been estimated that as many as 40 percent of all pregnant women suffer from varicose veins. There are three main causes for the development of varicose veins during pregnancy premary cause is hormonal changes. ncreased levels of the hormone progesterone cause blood vessels to relax. This may allow the two halves of the valves in the vein to separate slightly.

This affects even the muscles in the walls of your veins - which is why during pregnancy you are more prone to the problem. Varicose veins can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful. Second cause of varicose veins during pregnancy. The enlarged uterus (the organ that holds a developing fetus), pressing against the major veins in the pelvic region, tends to add to the overall problem. There are many symptoms of varicose vein during pregnancy include leg pain accompanied by feelings of fullness or heaviness; aching , discolored skin at the ankles that is brown in color, skin ulcers on your ankles, visibly enlarged veins and itchy, throbbing.

The result is an increase in the pressure in the leg veins that are subject to becoming varicose. Varicose veins during pregnancy are more likely to affect women who have an inherited tendency of varicose veins in their family. Varicose veins that develop during pregnancy usually disappear after delivery. Unfortunately, varicose veins are likely to recur in each succeeding pregnancy, often sooner than during the previous pregnancy. Women who develop varicose veins while they are pregnant are likely to develop them when they get older. Troublesome cases of varicose veins that do not clear up after delivery of the baby.

Exercise regularly to help promote your circulation and decrease the risk of blood pooling in your veins. Even a short walk around the block can help keep your cardiovascular system functioning well. Wear support hose also helpful this condition. Don’t cross your legs at the knee. Don’t stand for long periods. Avoid wearing tight girdles or panty leg girdles. When you ride in the car, stop and walk frequently. Sleep on your left side at night to take the pressure off of the veins that service your legs. Maintain an appropriate weight for your stage in pregnancy. Monitor sodium intake and eat plenty of fiber.