Varicose veins, or spider veins, are a common vascular condition that can affect people of all ages. This article provides an extensive overview of varicose veins, examining the condition from both Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspectives. Varicose veins pose both a cosmetic and health concern. Therefore, we will delve into what varicose veins are, their types, development, symptoms, prevalence in Australia, and treatment options, including the benefits of Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine.
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that often appear as blue or dark purple cords beneath the skin's surface. They most commonly occur in the legs and are a result of weakened or damaged vein walls and valves, leading to poor blood circulation. While varicose veins are more commonly associated with adults, they can occur in children, especially if there is a family history. However, the prevalence increases with age, pregnancy, and conditions that put extra pressure on the legs, where gravity can accelerate the pressure on blood circulation.
Activities such as walking facilitate a natural pumping action, aiding blood flow back to the heart. However, extended periods of sitting or standing, as seen during long flights or prolonged work hours, can lead to blood pooling in the legs. This persistent pressure may damage vein walls and valves, giving rise to varicose veins. Conventional treatments like sclerotherapy or grafting may address the symptoms but often fall short in addressing the root causes.
Types of Varicose Veins
There are two main types:
Primary Varicose Veins: Develop without an underlying medical condition.
Secondary Varicose Veins: Result from an underlying issue, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pelvic tumours.
Development and Symptoms
Veins contain one-way valves that help pump blood back towards the heart. When these valves weaken or fail, blood pools in the veins, causing them to enlarge and become varicose. Symptoms include aching, throbbing, or a heavy feeling in the legs, itching, and visible twisted veins.
Prevalence in Australia
As of the latest estimates, approximately 20-25% of adults in Australia are affected by varicose veins. That is every 4-5 people. The condition is more common in women than men.
TCM Understanding of Varicose Veins
In TCM, varicose veins are often associated with an imbalance in the body's Qi (energy) and Blood circulation. The condition is seen as a manifestation of dampness, blood stasis, and deficiency of Qi. TCM aligns with Western biomedicine in acknowledging poor blood circulation as a primary factor but introduces a unique element: Spleen Qi. Beyond exercise and smoking cessation, TCM identifies Spleen Qi as a key factor on blood vessel strength and elasticity.
Spleen Qi is responsible for breaking down food, creating nutrients, producing blood, and plays a vital role in regulating blood vessels. Weak Spleen Qi can lead to bleeding disorders and weakened blood vessels, contributing to varicose and spider veins. TCM asserts that addressing the Spleen organ and function can help improve digestion, improve blood circulation, and strengthen blood vessels.
TCM introduces the idea that concentrated sugars, processed foods, raw and cold foods can weaken digestion. Dairy products, deemed cold and damp in TCM, may weaken Spleen Qi, potentially exacerbating issues with blood circulation and veins. This can include avoiding ice cubes, opting for soups over salads, and reducing ice cream.
Consider blood vessels as an extension of the digestive system. Let's explore some parallels in structure and function between the digestive tract and blood vessels:
Both are elongated tubes comprising smooth muscle
Both have pulsating functions
Both are involved in nutrient transmission and waste elimination
The friendly flora in the gut plays a role in producing Vitamin K, a vital factor in blood clotting.
Spleen Qi deficiency is often a factor in poor blood circulation, that can lead to varicose veins and spider veins. Blood circulation is effectively a hydraulic pressure system, and it can’t work properly where there isn’t enough hydraulic fluid. This isn’t about blood volume, rather the concentration of blood cells. For example, drinking fluids will help your blood volume return to normal a few hours after donating blood — but it will be weeks before you have fully made up the blood cells you donated.
TCM tells us that we need enough blood before it can circulate properly, and that Spleen Qi is responsible not only for making blood but also for keeping it inside the vessels and regulating the smooth muscle composting vessel walls. This is good news! It means that by strengthening digestion, by choosing to consume Chinese Herbal Medicine and good foods while avoiding bad foods, it may improve blood circulation and strengthen blood vessels.
Benefits of Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine
Acupuncture: Acupuncture is used to stimulate specific points to improve Qi and Blood flow, addressing underlying imbalances. Acupuncture treatment can not only strengthen Spleen Qi, but there are also acupoints whose actions specifically target blood vessels. At AcuLife, we provide a highly specific and personalised treatment that works synergistically with the more general systemic benefits of dietary changes.
Chinese Herbal Medicine: Herbal formulas can be used which aim to invigorate blood circulation and strengthen the Spleen’s function. It can help address varicose veins from a more cellular level.
Natural Treatment Approaches
Dietary Changes: Consuming foods that promote blood circulation, such as garlic, ginger, and dark leafy greens.
Emotional Control: Maintaining a calm state of mind can help reduce blood pressure, and in TCM the Spleen Qi is specifically depleted with the emotion overthinking
Warm Fluid intake: Drink plenty of fluids that is warm and avoid ice.
Exercise: Regular physical activity, especially low-impact exercises like walking or swimming, promotes healthy blood circulation.
At AcuLife, we help patients that have had varicose veins for a very long time and are not sure how to properly treat it. The combined benefits of Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and dietary therapy in addressing varicose veins and spider veins. Appointments can be scheduled six days a week for those wanting to schedule a consultation to help address their health concerns.
To learn what we can do for you, Contact our team today👇
AcuLife
(02) 4620 9798
5 Stewart St, Harrington Park
Bookings: www.aculife.com.au