Varicose veins are those veins which have become tortuous and enlarged. The veins on the body can bulge with blood when they do not circulate the blood appropriately. These veins are very common in thighs and legs (when they are subjected to large pressure while standing) but these could develop elsewhere also.

These could be painful and itch a lot, while scratching the varicose veins can also cause ulcers. The varicose veins are long, bulging, dilated and can grow up to 4 mm in diameter.

Gravity is considered as the main cause of varicose veins. When the veins are subjected to high pressure of body weight and gravity, the veins have to work harder to move the blood back to the heart. When high pressure is subjected, the blood pools up and cause varicose veins. Prevention is always better than cure. And, varicose veins can be prevented by making activity and lifestyle changes. Also, wearing sunscreen and limited exposure to sun can prevent varicose veins on upper parts of body.

Exercising daily increases the blood circulation and low weight reduces the pressure on veins while doing tasks such as sitting or standing. Legs should be elevated as much as possible as this will improve the circulation of blood. A diet which is low in salt and high in fiber can reduce the risk of diseases which cause varicose veins such as water retention and constipation.

Treatment of mild varicose vein cases is done through compression bandages, leg elevation and exercise which prevent worsening of signs. Medical treatment is needed for severe cases where the pain is significant. Ultrasound would be done to determine cause of the varicose veins and a vascular specialist might also be referred.

The most usual treatment of this problem is by injecting a solution in the affected veins. This solution causes the veins to swell, stick together and seal. This treatment stops the blood flow from the veins after which the veins turn into scars and fade. Other ways of treating varicose veins include endoscopic surgery, ambulatory phlebectomy, surgical ligation and laser surgery.