Varicose veins that is also referred to as varicoses or varicosities usually occur when your veins become dilated, enlarged or are overfilled with blood. Varicose veins commonly appear to be swollen or raised, and have a red or a bluish purple colour. These are quite painful and cause severe discomfort and uneasiness.

Varicose veins is however quite a common condition, especially in women. It is pertinent to note that around 25 percent of all individuals usually suffer from varicose veins. Also in most cases, these problematic varicose veins form on the lower legs.

Various Causes of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins commonly occur when veins stop functioning properly. Veins have one way valves that are used to prevent blood from flowing in the backward direction. When these valves fail, our blood begins to collect inside the veins instead of flowing smoothly towards the heart. The veins then end up becoming enlarged. Varicose veins typically affect our legs. The veins inside our legs are the farthest from our heart, and the gravity hence makes it extremely hard for the blood to flow upwards.

Some Prominent Causes for Varicose Veins -

• Pregnancy in Women
• Menopause
• Age of over 50 years
• Standing for prolonged periods
• Obesity
• Family history of varicose veins

Symptoms of Varicose Veins -

The major symptoms of varicose veins are prominently visible and misshaped veins that are most commonly on the legs. One may also experience extreme discomfort with swelling, pain and a feeling of heaviness around or over the enlarged veins.

In some cases one can even develop discoloration along with swelling, and in other extremely severe cases, the veins may also bleed and this can further cause ulcers.