How Menopause May Trigger Varicose Veins

If you are a woman who is either about to go through menopause or have already traveled down that road, you need to have a good understanding of the special cardiovascular risks which come with menopause. Even though most of us only think of menopause as an end to the childbearing years, it is important that all women at this stage of their lives educate themselves regarding both the physical and emotional health issues that may come with the territory. The development of varicose veins is simply one of the many health complications which may develop around the time menopause begins. Varicose veins, while unattractive, can, unfortunately, lead to serious health complications. Although varicose veins can be found in both men and women, they are much more likely to be seen in women, and many times their arrival coincides with the onset of menopause. Poor blood flow is the primary cause of varicose veins, which is why they are often seen in those who spend prolonged amounts of time either sitting or standing, yet menopause can either bring a worsening of varicose veins, or bring them on for the first time in a woman's life.

While menopause varicose veins can be painful, more importantly they can be an indicator that even greater cardiac complications have developed. It is always a good idea to consult with a cardiologist, especially if they appear suddenly. Although not all varicose veins are cause for concern, nevertheless it is hardly worth taking a risk, so getting a doctor's evaluation is a good idea. If your doctor feels you are at risk of blood clots developing in the varicose veins he may prescribe a cardiac medication such as an anti-coagulant.

What Causes Varicose and Spider Veins During Menopause?

First of all, as we age, the valves in our veins tend to weaken and simply don't work as well as they once did. Heredity may play a fairly large part in whether or not you develop varicose veins-almost half of all those who have varicose veins also have a family member who has them. You may also have simply been born with weaker veins than some, which will also predispose you to varicose veins during menopause. The hormonal changes which occur during menopause boost your chances of developing varicose veins as does being overweight. Being overweight or obese can put extra pressure on your veins which in turn leads to varicose veins, so if you are overweight try to lose some of the extra pounds, and if you are not overweight, be extra vigilant during this time in your life as your metabolism will likely decrease, making it more likely that you will gain weight.

If you are fairly sedentary, now is the time to get moving. When you sit or stand for extended periods of time, your veins have to work much harder to get the blood to your heart; if you sit with legs bent or crossed, your risk increases substantially.

Solutions to the Varicose Veins of Menopause

If you sit for longer than three hours at a stretch, make sure you get up and move around at least once per hour. Consider improving your breathing through yoga and meditation which can substantially increase your circulation. Try to consume a diet which is high in fruits and vegetables, most especially those which are high in rutin, which helps keep veins elastic. Good sources of rutin are cherries, rose hips, citrus fruits, blackberries, apricots and buckwheat. Comfrey, an herb, has been used for centuries in healing, and also can help repair varicose veins. Be sure to stay in close contact with your physician, even while trying natural solutions to your varicose veins. As with many things in life, if you get plenty of exercise, eat a healthy diet and try to reduce your stress, you may not have to deal with the pain of varicose veins at all, and, if you do, these tips can greatly lessen your symptoms.