Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are dilated, twisted, and elongated superficial veins, usually seen in the legs, resulting from the weakening of the vessel wall or poor functioning of the valves within the veins. The valves in healthy veins allow blood to flow towards the heart but prevent it from flowing backwards. When these valves fail or the vein walls become weak, blood can pool within the vein, causing it to become enlarged and varicose. This condition is often related to increased venous pressure, which may be due to genetic factors, obesity, pregnancy, prolonged standing, age, or straining.

Symptoms of varicose veins include visible, bulging veins, a feeling of heaviness or ache in the affected limbs, swelling, particularly in the lower legs and ankles, and, in more severe cases, skin changes and ulceration due to chronic venous insufficiency. While varicose veins can be asymptomatic and merely a cosmetic concern for some, for others, they can lead to discomfort and complications such as thrombophlebitis (vein inflammation with clot formation). Diagnosis is typically confirmed through a physical examination and duplex ultrasonography. Treatment options vary from conservative approaches, such as compression stockings and lifestyle modifications, to more invasive procedures like endovenous thermal ablation, sclerotherapy, or surgical removal.