How Your Veins Work
Your veins transport blood to and from the heart. They are equipped with a set of valves that ensure your blood flows properly. These valves typically consist of two elastic flaps of tissue that open and close in alternation. This enables blood to flow through the valve to another vein. After moving through the network of veins, the blood reaches the heart and travels to the lungs, which supply it with oxygen while expelling carbon dioxide and other waste from the blood. The oxygenated blood then courses through the pulmonary vein back to the heart, which pumps it to the entire body.
Leg vein valves are vitally important in promoting healthy circulation as they provide for proper return of blood flow from the legs to the heart. They must do this by counteracting gravity even in those who sit or stand for long periods of time.
However, the valves don’t do this work alone. As the muscles in the body tighten and release, the valves open and close as needed. When muscles tighten, the valves open, and when muscles relax, the valves close.
This regular opening and closing of valves prevent back flow—a condition where the blood flows in the wrong direction. When back flow occurs, blood can begin to pool in the veins, potentially damaging them. This is often the cause of many common vein disorders.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are a result of a defect in the veins that prevent them from properly pumping blood. In turn, the pooling of blood creates distended blood vessels that can cause moderate to severe pain, as well as visible swelling. While it isn’t necessarily a cause of malfunctioning venous valves, the associated inflammation can make the problem worse.
Fortunately, this condition is easily treated, though it should not be left to chance. While dietary changes and wearing compression garments can provide significant relief, it is important that it should be treated as quickly as possible, regardless of the severity. Left untreated, the condition may promote the formation of blood clots that can detach and lodge elsewhere in the circulatory system.
The good news is that varicose veins do not have to be debilitating. Scheduling an appointment at the Vein Center of Cincinnati is your best move towards improving your vein health before it gets worse. Using the latest, most advanced vein treatments, Dr. Hearn and his staff can help you understand the underlying cause of your discomfort, explain treatment options, and guide you through every step of your procedure and recovery.
