Varicose veins
Varicose veins are visible superficial veins on the legs, which are often tortuous and dilated.
Quality Of Life
In many cases, affected people find them unsightly, and this can impact the way people live their lives, particularly in the summer months.
The dilated veins can be associated with symptoms, the most common of these being aching, cramping and heaviness in the legs. People affected can also experience considerable itching.
Varicose Veins Complications
Varicose veins can lead to some medical issues, over and above their unsightly nature.
The veins may become blocked with clot and become tender and inflamed (thrombophlebitis). This can be associated with an increased risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT).
The skin on the lower part of the leg can become flaky and inflamed (venous eczema). If untreated, brown discoloration and staining of the skin around the ankles can occur, which is the first indication that a venous ulcer may develop.