Nurse practitioner Leanna L Beaumont recently wrote in The Herald Times Reporter about the dangers of varicose veins which, if left untreated, may develop into sores.

She states that veins should pump blood from the legs to the heart, but sometimes this process can become reversed, resulting in fluid accumulation that can result in bulging, varicose veins, a condition called venous insufficiency.

The skin can become very weak around the area and eventually the vein may burst, causing a venous stasis ulcer, which affects up to 600,000 Americans each year. Most of these are found below the knee and around the ankle.

Beaumont advises those who have suffered a venous stasis ulcer to pursue two treatments simultaneously. First, prescription-strength compression leggings should be used to contain the ulcer and reduce swelling. This can be complemented by physical activity, such as walking.

Because these ulcers are caused by venous insufficiency individuals should also attempt to treat this deficit before it can cause ulcers. Beaumont writes that consulting with a health professional can lead to an effective treatment plan.

The National Woman's Health Information Center states that sitting for long periods of times can interfere with proper blood flow, particularly if one's legs are kept crossed.