Author: Bush, Gracelyn

You’re probably asking:
What can I do to prevent against varicose veins?

While varicose veins are common with age, demanding careers, and pregnancy, a few simple steps can be taken to prevent them from worsening:
Take sitting breaks during the day
Elevate legs while laying down
Avoid tight clothing in the legs

Check here to learn more!
http://lyceum.algonquincollege.com/lts/onlineCourses/anatomy/App_Themes/e-learning/images/diagrams/11-4_veins.jpg
http://www.innerbody.com/image/cardov.html

Know Your Body:
Varicose Veins

Before we can dig into the truth about varicose veins, we must discover the structure and function of both arteries and veins.

Grace Bush

Veins vs Arteries
Veins:
Veins are the blood vessels that are responsible for carrying deoxygenated blood from the body and return it to the heart. Have VALVES to allow the blood to defy gravity to flow up to the heart.
Arteries:
Arteries are the blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the body. Do not have valves, as the heart provides enough pressure to flow.

Blood flow TO and From the Heart:
As seen below, the blood must flow UP in veins, needing the valves to allow pressure for it to reach the heart and the lungs to be oxygenated.
Blood flows down from the heart to the body via arteries, through the muscles to provide oxygen to the cells.

Varicose Veins
Varicose veins can be seen above, as the veins appear inflamed. This is caused when the pressure put upon the veins, to flow upward, is too great and forces to veins to swell.. Arteries cannot become varicose.