Varicose veins

Veins are responsible for carrying blood back to the heart, and varicose veins refer to those that are close to the surface of the skin, abnormally curved, and dilated, making them visible to the naked eye. The primary cause of varicose veins is the backflow of blood, although some causes may be hidden.

The tiny varicose veins that appear on the skin are often called telangiectasias or spider veins. Some spider veins may indicate underlying varicose veins.

People with varicose veins should seek medical advice as early as possible to manage the issue and avoid complications.

Causes of varicose veins

Varicose veins occur when the walls of blood vessels weaken and enlarge, causing the valves that maintain blood flow in the veins to fail. Normal valves allow blood to flow in only one direction, from the legs back to the heart. However, if a valve is faulty or does not close completely, blood will flow in the opposite direction when the body is standing. This backflow increases pressure in the veins, causing them to gradually swell and bend over time.

Who is at high risk for varicose veins?

Elderly individuals, those with a family history of varicose veins, people with flat feet, obese patients, smokers, pregnant women, individuals with high levels of female hormones, and those who work in jobs requiring long periods of standing or sitting, as well as heavy physical labor, are all at high risk of developing varicose veins. Therefore, prevention and treatment should be initiated as soon as possible.