You and Your Veins

Varicose veins are usually caused by insufficiency of the superficial venous system. They develop when valves in the veins (which facilitate blood flow back to the heart) stop functioning properly.

About Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are enlarged veins that are swollen and raised above the surface of the skin. They occur due to a weakening in the vein walls and valves. They can look dark purple or blue and be lumpy, ropelike, twisted and/or bulging. Those who suffer from varicose veins are likely to complain of their legs feeling heavy, swollen, tired, restless and achy. When the valves in the veins malfunction, blood pools in the veins and causes them to get larger. These bulging veins cause symptoms including pain, edema, skin discoloration and even ulceration. The condition known as chronic venous insufficiency or venous reflux disease. Contributing factors include age, gender, heredity, obesity, pregnancy and standing occupations.

Symptoms include:

• Leg pain and swelling
• Leg heaviness
• Restless legs
• Leg cramps
• Blood clots
• Raised, swollen veins
• Leg discoloration
• Leg ulcers
• Spider veins

About Spider Veins

Tiny red or blue bursts on your legs are spider veins. They are the result of dilated venous capillaries that fill with blood and become visible. They are frequently seen on the thighs, around the knees, on the calves and at the ankles.