Varicose Veins Overview
Varicose veins are veins that are unnaturally and permanently distended. They are large, “rope-like” veins often 1/4 inch or larger in diameter. Vein walls or vein valves near the skin can become damaged from natural stretching or weakening because of the pressure of the blood flowing through the veins. Varicose veins often appear through the skin on a person’s legs as blue, bulging, and twisted veins; in some cases the veins may be raised or stand out on the surface of the skin.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins occur when veins are not properly returning blood from the lower leg to the heart. All veins have valves that open to allow the flow of blood to the heart and close to prevent backflow (otherwise known as “reflux”) of blood to the foot. When valves fail to function properly, blood leaks through and flows down the leg in the wrong direction. The blood overfills and distends the superficial veins under the skin, resulting in the bulging seen in varicose veins.
Progression & Complications
Initially, most patients will feel slight pain and restlessness in the diseased leg. However, untreated varicose veins generally grow in size and worsen over time. When varicose veins become severe, it is referred to as chronic venous insufficiency. Symptoms include aching pain, easy leg fatigue, and leg heaviness, all of which worsen as the day progresses. Left untreated, chronic venous insufficiency can cause ulcerations which can be very difficult to treat.