Online Resources for Information on Varicose Veins from Healthy Women

Wearing compression stockings is often the first approach to try before moving on to other treatments. Compression stockings are worn all day long. They steadily squeeze your legs, helping veins and leg muscles move blood more efficiently. The amount of compression varies by type and brand.

Some people think of compression stockings as being uncomfortable and unstylish, but their bad fashion reputation is no longer deserved. Stockings today come in a variety of strengths, styles and colors. With the variety offered, you're likely to find a stocking that you're comfortable wearing.

Compression stockings are sold at medical supply stores.  Prices vary, and stockings generally last from 4 to 6 months.

• According to the American College of Phlebology, about 80 million Americans have varicose veins or a related disorder, spider veins
• As women age, they are more likely to develop varicose veins: 41 percent of women aged 40 to 50 years old have varicose veins, increasing to 72 percent of women aged 60 to 70 (and 43 percent of men who are 70). Also as women age, varicose veins become more visibly pronounced.
• Spider veins, also referred to as telangiectasia or broken capillaries, are formed by the dilation of a small group of blood vessels located close to the surface of the skin and are most commonly found on the legs and face. They look like red or purple sunbursts, branched or web patterns.
• Women are up to four times more likely than men to develop varicose veins; up to 50 percent of American women may be affected, according to the American College of Phlebology.
• Pregnant women often develop varicose veins for a number of reasons: In addition to hormonal changes, pregnancy causes both an increased volume of blood and increased pressure from the abdomen, which in turn cause veins to enlarge. The good news is varicose veins due to pregnancy often improve within three months after delivery. However, with successive pregnancies, these abnormal veins are more likely to remain.
• Varicose veins aren’t just a cosmetic concern. They can also pose a health risk and are associated with the development of skin ulcers; phlebitis, which is an inflammation of the vein; or blood clots.
• Though it may require several sessions and the veins may fade only gradually, sclerotherapy, a procedure performed in a health care professional’s office, can result in up to a 90 percent improvement in the appearance of varicose or spider veins.
• While there are several treatment options for small varicose veins and spider veins, large varicose veins may require surgery.