Veins are blood vessels in the body that transport deoxygenated blood from the outer parts of the body back to the heart and lungs. Sometimes, veins can become abnormally thick or enlarged. These are known as varicose veins. While varicose veins can form anywhere in the body, they are generally located in the legs and in the U.S. alone, an estimated 19% of men and 36% of women have them.

Varicosities is the term used to describe the thickened, twisting or dilated parts of the vein.

Varicose veins can form anywhere in the body, but they are most often located in the legs and are inherited in most cases. They also tend to become more prominent with age.

The veins in the legs are either superficial, which are close to the skin or deep, which are embedded in muscle and connective tissue which aid in pumping blood. Both are connected by the communicator or perforator veins. The superficial veins are usually the veins that become varicosed. The deep veins have one-way valves to prevent them from developing varicosities.

Generally, blood travels from the superficial veins to the deep veins. From there, the blood travels through a network of larger veins back to the heart.

There are many theories pertaining to the cause of varicose veins but the majority of experts believe that defective/damaged valves within the veins are the primary cause.

The primary function of the valves is keep blood in the veins moving toward the heart by preventing backward flow of blood. Experts are still unsure why these valves can sometimes stop working, but genetic inheritance is one theory gaining a lot of support.

Abnormalities in the wall of the vein can be a problem that people are born with. This can result in leaky valves caused by weakness. When a person with with valves that function poorly stands up, a reversal of blood flow occurs and the blood flows down the superficial veins rather than flowing up, toward the heart. Eventually, a build up of pressure will occur as a result of the muscles that surround the deep veins contracting and emptying the deeper veins which cause even more blood to flow in the wrong direction. This increased pressure in the superficial veins is how varicosities are formed.

Many factors can make the situation worse including:

- Pregnancy

- Prolonged Standing

- Obesity

- Straining

- Prior Surgery or Trauma to the Leg

- Age

For most people, there are no symptoms involved with varicose veins. They are mainly a cosmetic problem.

For those who do experience symptoms, they include:

- Veins which protrude or bulge from under the skin and may feel hard.

- Aching in the Legs

- Severe pain upon standing

- Leg Cramps at Night

In many cases, varicose veins develop a blood clot along with inflammation of a segment of vein known as superficial thrombophlebitis. These clots are usually harmless.

Deep vein thrombophlebitis, which is a blood clot in a deep vein, is something different however. This case of thrombophlebitis is more serious because of the clot's potential to travel toward the heart and lodge in the lung. This condition requires immediate medical attention.

There is no sure-fire to way to prevent varicose veins, especially if they are hereditary. There are however, some safe, natural steps you can take to avoid developing them.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Exercise that works the legs is beneficial, especially walking in water.

Avoid Wearing Socks with tight elastic around the calves

Avoid Standing for Long Periods of Time

Rest & Elevate the Legs Whenever Possible

Supplementing with the following may also be beneficial:

Coenzyme Q10 (100 mg daily) - Improves tissue oxygenation & increases circulation.

Coenzyme A (take as directed on label) - Works with coenzyme Q10 to support the immune system.

Dimethylgycine (50 mg 3 times daily) - Improves oxygen utilization in the tissues.

Essential Fatty Acids (take as directed on label) - Reduces pain & aids in keeping blood vessels soft.

Glutathione (take as directed on label) - Protects the heart, veins & arteries from oxidant damage.

Horse Chestnut - Significantly reduces swelling and heaviness in the legs.

Bilberry Leaf - Effective in treating varicose veins.

Grape Seed Extract - Improves collagen and controls capillary leakage.

Quercetin (500 to 600 mg three times daily with meals) - A powerful bioflavonoid that strengthens the walls of veins to prevent and heal varicosities.