Definition:
Varicose veins are characterized as gnarled and enlarged veins that usually develop in the legs and feet. While this condition is mostly seen as a cosmetic concern and a medically insignificant condition, in some cases it can cause serious discomfort and pain and increase the risk of other circulatory complications.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is based on the appearance of varicose veins in the legs and the symptoms.
Treatment:
Treatment for varicose veins includes scleotherapy which involves the injection of a solution in the affected veins. Laser surgeries may also be an option to eliminate the unsightly appearance of spider veins.
Symptoms and Signs:
In mild cases, people may not feel any pain but in advanced stages, the patient can feel heavy and achy feeling in the legs as well as the throbbing and muscle cramping of the lower legs. The condition may aggravate from prolonged standing and sitting. The physical manifestation of varicose veins includes the blue and purple appearance of views that appear bulging and twisted and can be very unsightly.
Causes:
Since the veins in the legs work against gravity in circulating blood, this causes it to stretch and weaken the valves. As the blood pools in the legs it causes the veins in the legs to enlarge. The veins may sometimes appear blue due to the fact that it contains deoxygenated blood. Pregnant women are among the most prone individuals for varicose veins.
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