Understanding Varicose Veins: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Varicose veins are common problems in the elderly and obese, and they are caused by a single cardiovascular malfunction. Fortunately, they are easily treated and may not actually result in any irritation.

Veins

• Veins are vessels which carry blood from tissue capillaries to the heart, so it can be re-oxygenated. They are surrounded by three layers of endothelial and smooth muscle cells and contain valves to counter backflow of blood.

Who is at Risk?

• Obesity physically stresses veins, as does old age. Women seem to get varicose veins more often than men, but the condition is partially linked to family history as well.

Underlying Cause

• Varicose veins are caused by malfunctioning valves in leg veins. Because gravity naturally pulls blood back towards your feet after a heartbeat, blood begins to back up and pool in the veins. Pregnancy can cause varicose veins because of a drop in blood flow between the extremities (or the fetus) and the heart.

Symptoms

• Pooling of the blood enlarges the veins and causes the characteristic blue, twisted appearances on the legs. More severe occurrences can result in pain or other irritations in the legs. Varicose veins can also be side effects of a deeper cardiovascular issue.

Treatment

• Compression stockings and exercise can help blood flow return to normal, but if these don't work, surgical procedures can be used to remove varicose veins. The body can adjust so that the extra blood is pumped through different veins.