Understanding Your Leg Veins
Your body’s vascular system is made up of vessels that transport blood throughout the body and the heart which pumps the blood. The veins, arteries, and capillaries all work in unison to play a role in the bodies delivery and removal of critical nutrients and toxins that it needs to properly function. The blood vessels carry oxygen, carbon dioxide, nutrients, and both white and red blood cells that help to fight disease, maintain stability and balance the bodies temperature and pH levels.
The veins are responsible for returning blood back upwards to the heart after the vital oxygen and nutrients have been delivered to the body. Inside the veins are small one-way valves that push blood in just one direction and prevent blood from pooling in the body.
Types of Veins
- The venous system in the leg includes a few different kinds of veins, including:
- Superficial veins – These superficial veins are located nearest to the surface of the skin.
- Deep veins – The deep veins reside deep in the body.
- Communicating veins – The communicating veins (or perforator veins) are the veins that connect superficial veins and deep veins.
Vein disease will often, but not in all cases, occur when the one-way valves within the veins weaken or become damaged, leading to the backflow and pooling of blood within veins. This often leads to the appearance of varicose and spider veins.
Are There Ways To Decrease The Risk Of Varicose Veins And Spider Veins?
There are few ways to minimize your risk of forming leg veins including:
- Exercising on a regular basis
- Eating a healthy, balanced diet
- Trying to lose excess weight
- Avoiding sitting or standing for long periods
If you still have questions about veins, then just ask. We’re here to help get to the bottom of your concerns so you can take charge of your healthy today.