Varicose vein
Varicose veins are enlarged veins that most commonly appear on the legs. Varicose veins develop when the leaflet valves that prevent blood from flowing backwards become deformed, allowing blood to flow downwards into veins due to the effects of gravity.
The condition is more common in women than men, and can be caused by factors such as pregnancy, weight gain and ageing (particularly menopause). Varicose veins are often hereditary, though may also develop due to extended periods of standing still, leg injury or other abdominal straining.
Varicose vein symptoms
People with varicose veins often experience pain or aching as well as a feeling of heaviness in their legs caused by the presence of excess blood.Areas around and below the veins may experience swelling, itchiness, dryness or discoloration. This can be particularly severe in areas such as the ankles.
Varicose vein sufferers may also experience more bleeding from injuries sustained to the leg, which could also take longer to heal.


