Understanding Varicose Veins
Varicose veins and spider veins affect 25% of women and 15% of men. The veins may cause pain, swelling, or a heavy feeling in the legs in addition to the unsightly bulging appearance.
What is a Varicose Vein?
As the arteries carry blood away from the heart, the veins return blood to the heart.Veins are very thin-walled and subsequently are prone to stretching and swelling. Additionally, there are valves which support the blood on its journey back up to the heart. In varicose veins, these valves are defective which causes the swelling associated with this condition. This swelling is what is often referred to as varicosity. Because the veins have nerves associated with them, as they stretch, they become painful.
Why do I have Varicose Veins?
Often, varicose veins are inherited. Many times we see patients whose parents and grandparents have varicose veins. Other causes of varicose veins include pregnancy, obesity, repeated abdominal straining, as with heavy lifting, and long periods of standing.