Varicose veins

A common observation during later months of pregnancy is the development of prominent, enlarged and tortuous veins which protrude out of the skin. The so-called varicose veins are usually seen over the legs. It is also seen in vulva, rectum, anus and vagina areas. Heredity is said to play a significant role in the development of varicosity. What seems a striking observation is that most of the women who develop it are the ones who stand or sit for long spans of time. Among various causes of varicosity, are rise in total amount of blood and greater intra-abdominal pressure in pregnancy. To safeguard against varicosity, you are well advised to avoid standing for long hours during pregnancy. Try to sit with feet propped up every now and then. Lying down with feet raised also helps. Once varicosity develops, it helps to wear elastic stockings. In order to safeguard against varicosity in the rectum (the so-called piles or haemorrhoids) see that you do not have constipation. Take good deal of leafy vegetables and fruits. The general view is that men are affected to a lesser extent by this condition than the women. However, the recent Edinburgh Vein Study shows that 40 per cent of the men examined had varicose veins compared with 32 per cent of the women.