Understanding What Varicose Veins Are
What Are Varicose Veins
The medical term “varicose” comes from the Latin word “varix,” which means "twisted". Varicose veins are a common form of venous disease and represent a circulatory condition that results from valve dysfunction. Valve dysfunction occurs when veins in your legs weaken and are unable to do their job or don’t function properly. Instead of transporting blood from your legs back to the heart, the blood remains in your legs and begins to pool. Over time the increased pressure within the vein walls from the pooled blood can cause the veins to twist.
These twisted "varicose" veins can range from small, thin lines to large, bulging blue or purple cords that protrude significantly just beneath the surface of the skin. While they can develop anywhere in the body, varicose veins most commonly affect the superficial veins of the legs and feet due to the increased pressure that these areas experience when standing and walking.
Beyond the unsightly appearance of these twisty, rope-like bulging veins (varicose veins) just beneath the skin’s surface, varicose veins can also cause symptoms of swelling and a feeling of heaviness and pain which can negatively impact everyday activities. In extreme cases, having varicose veins can increase the risk for developing other serious health problems, such as leg ulcers and blood clots. Varicose veins are also one of the symptoms indicating the development of venous insufficiency.
Read more about Varicose Veins: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment.
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