Varicose veins — those unsightly bulges of veins that seem to randomly appear on people’s legs — are a problem in the United States.
According to the Chicago Vein Institute, more than 40 million Americans cope with them.
Varicose veins occur when the valves in a person’s legs stop working properly. Instead of sending blood to the heart, the valves allow blood to stay in the veins where it begins to pool in a person’s legs.
The pools of blood are what makes the veins become gnarled and large. Though many people consider them to be unsightly, varicose veins "usually aren't a sign of a serious problem," according to WebMD, but may cause some people to experience symptoms such as swelling, itching and calf pain.
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute says that family history, pregnancy and obesity can raise a person’s risk for varicose veins.
To get rid of varicose veins medically, doctors sometimes employ a technique called vein stripping.
Dr. Stephen Goldstein of the Vein Clinic and RejuveCenter in Costa Mesa, Calif., said doctors strip veins by making an incision in the groin or leg and then placing a wire into the vein to remove it.
Another procedure Goldstein mentioned, endovenous ablation, takes about 45 minutes. During the procedure a medical professional sends heat through a catheter into the specific veins to close them up.
For those who aren’t fans of “minimally invasive” medical procedures and want to get rid of varicose veins naturally, there are a lot of options.
According to the remedies on Top 10 Home Remedies, people only have to go as far as their cupboards to achieve a varicose-vein-free look.
One popular natural remedy is witch hazel. It reportedly strengthens blood vessels to reduce the appearance of varicose veins. Witch hazel can also help with discomfort caused by varicose veins because it contains gallic acid, which can reduce swelling.
Apple cider vinegar is another home remedy that Top 10 Home Remedies says can help with varicose veins. Since the vinegar is a strong detoxifier, it helps improve the body’s circulation. Once a person’s circulatory system is working properly, the varicose veins should clear up.
Cayenne pepper, garlic and olive oil are also useful in the fight against varicose veins because, like apple cider vinegar, they help improve circulation as well.
These tips are designed to give you options, but as always, when in doubt consult your doctor.