Varicose

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Varicose Veins

Varicose veins (pronunciation: /ˈværɪkoʊs/ /veɪnz/) are enlarged, swollen, and twisting veins, often appearing blue or dark purple. They occur when faulty valves in the veins allow blood to flow in the wrong direction or to pool.

Etymology

The term "varicose" is derived from the Latin word 'varix', which means twisted.

Symptoms

Varicose veins may not cause any pain. Signs you may have varicose veins include:

  • Veins that are dark purple or blue in color
  • Veins that appear twisted and bulging; often like cords on your legs

When painful signs and symptoms occur, they may include:

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

Causes

Varicose veins are caused by weakened valves and veins in your legs. Normally, one-way valves in your veins keep blood flowing from your legs up toward your heart. When these valves do not work as they should, blood collects in your legs, and pressure builds up. The veins become weak, large, and twisted.

Related Terms

  • Spider veins: These are similar to varicose veins, but smaller. They are closer to the surface of the skin and are often red or blue.
  • Deep vein thrombosis: This is a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg.
  • Chronic venous insufficiency: This occurs when a person's veins cannot pump enough blood back to their heart.

Treatment

Treatment may involve self-care measures or procedures by your doctor to close or remove veins.

See Also

External links

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