Varicose veins are a chronic and progressive disease that can lead to thrombosis. Know what aggravates and what combats the problem
Varicose veins can cause a lot of cosmetic discomfort for most women and sometimes even pain. The condition is a chronic disease, in which the veins become permanently dilated, stretched and twisted, presenting loss of function, explains Venous vascular surgeon Dr. Cristienne Souza.
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In addition to being chronic, the condition is progressive, which means that, without proper treatment, it can progress to more serious conditions or complications. “In the more advanced stages there is permanent edema of the legs, browning and fibrosis of the skin, wounds, thrombophlebitis and thrombosis,” warns Cristienne.
What causes varicose veins?
According to the specialist, varicose veins are associated with genetic predisposition and heredity. “Varicose veins arise due to interactions between hereditary and acquired factors, of the individual or the environment, such as pregnancy, obesity, prolonged occupational standing (working a lot of time on your feet), sedentary lifestyle, smoking. The lower limbs are the places most affected, ”explains the doctor.
Also, Cristienne claims that female hormones are involved in the manifestation of varicose veins. Therefore, we have observed that the disease occurs more frequently in women, especially during pregnancy (the time when hormones are highest).
Treatment
Clinical treatment for varicose veins includes weight control, regular physical activity, quitting smoking, and avoiding standing or sitting for long periods. Direct treatments, on the other hand, must be individualized for each patient. This is because each type of pot will respond better or worse to each type of technique.
“Therefore, it is important to carry out the treatment with a specialist doctor, as he is able to know which technique will be more effective in each case. Furthermore, what actually happens is that the same person has different types of diseased vessels in the legs, and the ideal treatment will involve the use of combined techniques,” adds the vascular surgeon.
Do varicose veins and bodybuilding go together?
For those who suffer from varicose veins or tend to develop the problem, the practice of bodybuilding can become a concern. However, exercising does not cause varicose veins. “On the contrary, the regular practice of physical activity improves venous circulation,” Cristienne points out.
According to her, strengthening your calves helps pump blood and returns venous blood to the heart. It is important to underline that weight training must be prescribed and guided by the professional in the area and the weights must be suitable for one’s physical fitness level.
Prevention
The professional lists some tips that can help prevent the appearance of varicose veins. Watch:
- Maintain regular physical activity to strengthen leg muscles and improve venous return;
- Adequate control of body weight, avoiding overweight and obesity;
- Avoid and/or quit smoking;
- Avoid staying in the same position for prolonged periods (standing or sitting for a long time);
- Maintain regular follow-up with a vascular physician to prevent disease progression.
Source: Terra

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.