What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted bluish veins that run just beneath the skin surface. The word varicose comes from the latin word varix meaning twisted. They commonly affect the legs and feet although they can appear anywhere. Varicose veins are categorized are Superficial Varicose Veins
and Deep Varicose Veins
Superficial varicose veins are visible and can be painful and disfiguring. However they are generally harmless. Superficial varicose veins are surrounded by flooded capillaries. When they get swollen, they can inhibit circulation to the extent of causing swollen ankles, itchy skin and pain in the limb. A very mild form of superficial varicose veins are spider veins. Hemorrhoids are also a form of varicose veins.
Deep varicose veins affect the deep venous network. They are generally not visible but can cause inflammation and pain throughout the leg. Blood clots can form. Thrombophlebitis or deep vein inflammation in the thighs and pelvis can lead to pulmonary embolism which can be a fatal condition.
Who can get affected by varicose veins?
There are more than 20 million people with varicose veins in the US alone. Women are twice as susceptible than men. Nearly 10% of adult men and 20% of women get affected by varicose veins which is a very common condition.