WHAT IS VARICOSE VEINS?

DEFINITION

             Varicose veins are large,swollen veins that often appear on the legs and feet.They happen when the valves in the veins do not work properly,so the blood does not flow effectively.

SYMPTOMS

             In the majority of cases,there is no pain,but signs and symptoms of varicose veins may include:

• veins look twisted,swollen,and lumpy(bulging)

• the veins are blue and dark 

• aching legs

• legs feel heavy,especially after exercise or at night

• a minor injury to the affected area may result in longer bleeding than normal

• lipodermatosclerosis-fat under the skin just above the ankle can become hard,resulting in the skin shrinking.

• swollen ankle

• telangiectasia in the affected leg (spider veins)

• there may be a shiny skin discoloration near the varicose veins,usually brownish or blue in colour

• venous eczema(stasis dermatitis)-skin in the affected area is red,dry and itchy

• when suddenly standing up,some individuals experience leg cramp.

• a high percentage of people with varicose veins also have restless legs syndrome                    

 CAUSES

           The veine have one way valves so that the blood can  travel in one direction only.If the valves of the vein become stretched and less flexible,the valves may get weaker.A weakened valve can allow blood to leak backward and eventually flow in the opposite direction.When this occurs,blood can accumulate in the vein(s),which then become enlarged and swollen.

              The veins furthest from the heart are most ofent affected,such as those in the legs.This is because gravity makes it harder for blood to back flow to the heart.Any condition that puts pressure on the abdomen has the potential to cause varicose veins for instance,pregnancy,constipation,in rare cases and tumour.