Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins. Any vein that is close to the skin's surface (superficial) can become varicosed. Varicose veins most commonly affect the veins in the legs. That's because standing and walking increase the pressure in the veins of the lower body.

Varicose veins might not cause pain. Signs of varicose veins include:

• Veins that are dark purple or blue
• Veins that appear twisted and bulging, often appearing like cords on the legs

When painful signs and symptoms of varicose veins occur, they might include:

• An achy or heavy feeling in the legs
• Burning, throbbing, muscle cramping and swelling in the lower legs
• Worsened pain after sitting or standing for a long time
• Itching around one or more of the veins
• Changes in skin color around a varicose vein

What are varicose veins caused from?

Varicose veins are a common condition caused by weak or damaged vein walls and valves. Veins have one-way valves inside them that open and close to keep blood flowing toward the heart. Weak or damaged valves or walls in the veins can cause blood to pool and even flow backwards. This is called reflux.