What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are dilated, tortuous veins that can occur in the legs. They can be small, thin purple-coloured lines (called Spider veins) that lie just below the skin surface, or they can appear as thick, bulging or knotty veins. While many people may think that
varicose veins are simply a cosmetic issue, there is in fact often an underlying medical problem that causes varicose veins. This medical condition is called venous reflux disease.

How common are varicose veins and venous reflux disease?

Varicose veins are a common medical condition. Varicose veins affect an estimated 40% of women and 25% of men. Factors leading to varicose veins include heredity, obesity, gender, pregnancy, age and other factors. Some factors may speed up the development of this disease and make the veins worse, including prolonged standing, obesity, hormone levels, and physical trauma.

What are the symptoms of varicose veins? Will they get worse?

People with varicose veins frequently say that their legs feel full or heavy, or they are itchy or throbbing. Varicose veins can be painful. Sometimes people with varicose veins experience swelling of the legs or ankles. Left untreated, the signs and symptoms of varicose veins can also include skin changes such as discoloration, inflammation and even ulcers.

It is important to know that venous reflux is a progressive disease. That means that if left untreated, it can progress to more serious symptoms. Varicose veins caused by venous reflux disease will not go away by themselves.