What are Varicose Veins?

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Healthy leg veins contain one-way valves that help move blood back toward the heart. When these valves weaken or become damaged, blood can collect inside the veins, creating increased pressure.

This increased pressure may cause veins to:

• Enlarge
• Twist
• Bulge beneath the skin

This condition is commonly referred to as venous insufficiency.

Common Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins may cause:

• Visible bulging veins
• Leg aching or heaviness
• Swelling
• Fatigue in the legs
• Burning or throbbing discomfort
• Skin discoloration
• Itching around the veins

Symptoms often worsen after prolonged standing or sitting.

Who Is at Risk for Varicose Veins?

Several factors may increase the risk of developing varicose veins, including:

• Family history
• Pregnancy
• Aging
• Prolonged standing or sitting
• Obesity
• Occupations requiring long hours on the feet
• Limited physical activity

People who work at desks or stand for extended periods may be more likely to develop venous insufficiency over time.

Can Varicose Veins Become Serious?

Yes. Although some varicose veins are primarily cosmetic, untreated venous insufficiency may eventually lead to:

• Chronic swelling
• Skin changes
• Venous ulcers
• Bleeding
• Increased discomfort

Early evaluation may help prevent progression and improve symptoms.

How Are Varicose Veins Treated?

Treatment options may include:

• Compression stockings
• Lifestyle changes
• Exercise
• Minimally invasive vein procedures
• Endovenous ablation
• Sclerotherapy

A vein specialist can recommend treatment based on the severity of the condition and your symptoms.

About Dr. Rajiv Nagesetty

Dr. Rajiv Nagesetty is a vascular surgeon and vein specialist at BASS Medical Group in Walnut Creek, California. He specializes in varicose vein treatment, venous insufficiency, vascular surgery, and minimally invasive vein procedures.

Video Transcript

Varicose veins are the result of what's called venous insufficiency.

Veins have one-way valves that bring blood back to the heart, and when those valves don't work properly, blood pools in the lower extremities or legs, resulting in varicose veins.

These veins are caused by the back pressure in the veins, but you can also experience leg swelling, pain, fatigue, and other symptoms due to that back pressure.

Over time, it can even lead to skin changes and become a serious medical problem.

Conditions that predispose someone to developing varicose veins include pregnancy and the type of job they have.

If someone is sitting or standing for extended periods, like those who work at desks or use computers all day, they are more likely to develop venous insufficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are varicose veins dangerous?

Some varicose veins are mainly cosmetic, but others may lead to discomfort, swelling, skin changes, or more serious vein disease.

What is venous insufficiency?

Venous insufficiency occurs when vein valves do not function properly, causing blood to pool in the legs.

Can exercise help varicose veins?

Regular movement and exercise may help improve circulation and reduce some symptoms.

Do varicose veins go away on their own?

Varicose veins typically do not disappear without treatment, although symptoms may fluctuate over time.