1. What are varicose veins and why do we get them?

Varicose veins, also known as varices, are swollen, twisted veins that often appear on the legs and feet. They occur when blood pools in the superficial veins of the legs, causing the veins to swell and appear bluish or purple under the skin. They are not just a cosmetic issue but can also cause discomfort and serious health complications. But why do we get them?

Genetics

The tendency to develop varicose veins can be inherited. If your parents or grandparents have them, you're more likely to develop them as well. Genetic factors influence the structure and function of veins and their valves, increasing susceptibility to this problem.

Gender

Women are more prone to varicose veins than men, due to hormonal influences that can weaken the vein walls. Pregnancy, menopause, and hormonal contraceptives can increase the risk. During pregnancy, the volume of blood in the body increases, adding pressure on the veins. Hormonal changes during this time can also relax muscles, connective tissue, and vein walls.

Age

As we age, veins lose elasticity, and the valves in the veins can weaken, increasing the risk of blood pooling and forming varicose veins. Aging naturally weakens vein structures.

Occupation and lifestyle

Jobs that require prolonged standing or sitting can contribute to varicose veins. Staying in one position impedes blood flow and increases pressure in the leg veins. Jobs in retail, hospitality, or office settings can raise the risk.

Overweight

Excess weight means additional pressure on the veins in the legs. The more weight the legs carry, the higher the pressure on the vein valves, potentially weakening them and leading to varicose veins.

Lack of exercise

Regular exercise promotes blood circulation and strengthens muscles that support blood flow. Lack of movement can cause blood to pool in the leg veins, raising the risk of varicose veins.

2. Tips to prevent varicose veins

Exercise, exercise, exercise

As mentioned, regular exercise is crucial for promoting blood circulation and strengthening leg muscles. So, get your blood moving with:

• Walking: Take a walk every day. Your blood and veins will thank you.

• Cycling: Pedal to boost circulation.

• Swimming: Dive in and relieve your veins in the water.

• Leg exercises: Rotate your feet, lift your calves, and stretch your leg muscles—even while on the couch!

Weight management

A healthy weight means less pressure on your veins. Here are some tips to help:

• Balanced diet: A diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports vein health.

• Stay hydrated: Drink enough water to support blood flow.

• Less salt: Too much salt can cause water retention, increasing pressure on the veins.

Avoid prolonged sitting and standing

Long periods of sitting or standing can impair circulation and increase the risk of varicose veins. Therefore:

• Change positions frequently: Try to change your position regularly. Stand up, take a few steps, or if you stand a lot for work, sit down or squat briefly to stimulate blood circulation.

• Elevate your legs: When possible, elevate your legs to support blood return to the heart.

• Wear compression stockings: They might not look fashionable, but they help. Compression stockings provide additional pressure to support veins and improve blood flow.

Proper clothing and shoes

Choosing the right clothes and shoes can make a big difference:

• Avoid tight clothing: Give your legs room. Tight pants or belts can restrict blood flow and should be avoided.

• Comfortable shoes: Low-heeled shoes support the natural function of leg muscles and promote circulation.

• Compression stockings: As mentioned, these can improve blood flow and reduce swelling.

A healthy lifestyle

Healthy habits keep your veins in good shape:

• Quit smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and impairs circulation.

• Moderate alcohol: Excessive drinking can dilate blood vessels and contribute to varicose veins.

• Manage stress: Stress can affect blood vessel health. Yoga, meditation, and similar practices help reduce stress and relieve your veins.

3. Treatment options for existing varicose veins

If you already have varicose veins, don’t panic! There are many ways to treat them, alleviate symptoms, and support your veins.

Compression therapy

Compression stockings, although uncomfortable in summer, are one of the most common and effective methods for treating varicose veins. They apply pressure to the legs, support veins, and improve blood flow. Different types of compression stockings range from mild to strong compression, selected based on the severity of varicose veins.

Minimally invasive procedures

Several minimally invasive procedures are less invasive than traditional surgeries:

• Sclerotherapy: A solution or foam is injected into the affected vein to close it off. Blood is then rerouted through healthy veins.

• Laser therapy: A laser is used to close the affected vein, suitable for smaller varicose veins.

• Radiofrequency ablation: A catheter is inserted into the vein and heated to close it off.

Surgical procedures

In severe cases, surgery might be necessary. This includes:

• Vein stripping: Surgically removing the affected veins.

• Phlebectomy: Removing smaller veins through small skin incisions.

• Endoscopic vein surgery: Using a small camera to locate and remove the affected vein.

Natural treatments

Alongside medical and surgical treatments, natural and alternative approaches can help alleviate varicose vein symptoms. Extracts from horse chestnut, butcher's broom, grape seed, acerola, and tomato can support vein health and reduce swelling.

A hot tip: NN Veinrefresher® by Nikolaus Nature

If you want to give your veins some real care, get NN Veinrefresher® by Nikolaus Nature. These capsules are perfect for supporting your veins and making life easier for your legs.

NN Veinrefresher® contains a brilliant mix of Fruitflow® tomato extract, L-lysine, and vitamin C from acerola. These ingredients can help strengthen your vein walls and valves, improving circulation. Especially handy now in summer: these capsules are incredibly practical for long flights or if you stand a lot in your daily routine. According to a study by the University Clinic Freiburg¹, Fruitflow® tomato extract can reduce blood platelet aggregation—helping to prevent blood clots and varicose veins. The study showed that the active ingredients in the tomato extract improve blood flow and protect blood vessels.

NN Veinrefresher® is an excellent choice for anyone looking to support their veins specifically. A recommended dose is one capsule daily.

NN OPC + Acerola by Nikolaus Nature

For an extra boost in vein health, check out NN OPC + Acerola capsules by Nikolaus Nature. This combination of powerful antioxidants and vitamin C is a real game-changer for your veins.

NN OPC + Acerola capsules contain a synergistic mix of OPC (oligomeric proanthocyanidins) from grape seed extract and vitamin C from acerola cherries. These two ingredients work hand in hand to strengthen your blood vessels and improve circulation. OPC can help keep blood vessels elastic and support the collagen structure. Vitamin C from acerola promotes collagen formation and protects your veins from oxidative stress. A strong collagen framework is essential for keeping veins elastic and resilient. In a clinical study by Minerva Cardiology², a daily intake of 100 mg OPCs over 10 days was tested on patients with uncomplicated chronic venous insufficiency. The results were impressive: over 80% of patients reported significant improvement in symptoms such as swelling, itching, and pain. This positive effect was seen within the first 10 days of treatment, indicating the fast and effective action of OPCs. OPCs are particularly effective at reducing lower limb swelling and improving overall well-being.

If you stand or sit a lot, OPC is a great addition to your daily routine. The recommended dose is two capsules daily.

NN Omega 3 by Nikolaus Nature

Omega-3 fatty acids in NN Omega 3 capsules by Nikolaus Nature are essential nutrients offering numerous health benefits, especially for the cardiovascular system and circulation.

A Norwegian study on the effects of fish consumption on the risk of venous thromboembolism (simply put: venous thrombosis), published in The Journal of Nutrition³, provides compelling evidence that omega-3 fatty acids significantly reduce risk. The study examined the influence of fish consumption and fish oil supplements on thrombosis risk in a population group and found that high fish consumption was associated with a slightly reduced thrombosis risk. Even more interesting, the additional intake of fish oil supplements enhanced this positive effect. Participants who consumed fish more than three times a week and took fish oil supplements had a 48% lower risk of venous thromboembolism compared to those who ate less fish and didn't use fish oil supplements. These findings clearly show that omega-3 fatty acids improve circulation and have anti-inflammatory effects, which are particularly beneficial for people with varicose veins. Omega-3 fatty acids can help keep blood vessels flexible, which may reduce the risk of varicose veins and related complications such as vein inflammation and chronic venous insufficiency.

4. When to seek medical advice

At the first sign of vein problems, it’s advisable to consult a doctor. They can determine if you need to see a vein specialist (phlebologist). Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are crucial to slowing the progression of the condition and avoiding complications. A doctor can provide personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific condition.

5. Avoiding complications

Varicose veins can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. To avoid these complications, it’s essential to take varicose veins seriously and treat them early. Here are some potential complications.

Thrombophlebitis: vein inflammation

Thrombophlebitis is an inflammation of superficial veins, often caused by a blood clot. The affected vein becomes red, hot, and painful, with possible swelling. In severe cases, it can develop into deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can be life-threatening.

Chronic venous insufficiency

Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when the veins in the legs can’t effectively pump blood back to the heart, leading to blood pooling in the legs, causing swelling, pain, and skin changes. In advanced stages, CVI can lead to serious complications such as venous ulcers.

Venous ulcers

Venous ulcers are painful, open wounds on the lower legs that are slow to heal. They result from prolonged increased pressure in the veins, damaging the surrounding tissue. These wounds are not only painful but can also lead to infections and further health issues.

Conclusion

Varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic issue. Untreated, they can lead to serious health complications. By preventing and treating varicose veins early, you can reduce the risk of thrombophlebitis, chronic venous insufficiency, and venous ulcers. Stay active, wear compression stockings, pay attention to your diet and hydration, and consult your doctor regularly to give your legs the best chance for health and well-being.

Sources

1 Chrubasik-Hausmann S., Erne P. (2014): Zur Regulierung der Fließeigenschaft des Blutes mit dem wässrigen Tomantenextrakt Fruitflow®. Universitätsklinik Freiburg. Zeitschrift für Phytotherapie. S. 12-15. (URL)

2 Hansen-Krone J., Enga K., Südduth-Klinger J., Mathiesen E., Njølstad I., Wilsgaard T., Watkins S., Brækkan S, Hansen J. (2014): High Fish plus Fish Oil Intake Is Associated with Slightly Reduced Risk of Venous Thromboembolism: The Tromsø Study. The Journal of Nutrition. American Society for Nutrition. S 861-867. (URL).

3 Costantini A, De Bernardi T, Gotti A (1999): Clinical and capillaroscopic evaluation of chronic uncomplicated venous insufficiency with procyanidins extracted from vitis vinifera. Minerva Cardioangiol. PRIME PubMed. S 39-46. (URL). product recommendations :