Varicose Veins & Spider Veins
What are varicose veins?
A vein is a blood vessel that carries blood low in oxygen content from
the body to the lungs and heart. It is a normal part of the circulatory
system.
Veins can become buldge with pools of blood when they fail to
circulate the blood properly. These visible and bulging veins, called
varicose veins, are often associated with symptoms such as tired, heavy,
or aching limbs. In severe cases, varicose veins can rupture, or open
sores (called "ulcers") can form on the skin. Varicose veins are
most common in the legs and thighs.
What are spider veins?
Small "spider veins" also can appear on the skin's surface.
These may look like short, fine lines, "starburst" clusters, or
a web-like maze. Spider veins are most common in the thighs, ankles, and
feet. They may also appear on the face.
Who gets varicose and spider veins?
Varicose and spider veins can occur in men or women of any age, but most
frequently affect women of childbearing years and older. Family history of
the problem and aging increase one's tendency to develop varicose and
spider veins.
What causes varicose and spider veins?
The causes of varicose and spider veins are not entirely understood. In
some instances, the absence or weakness of valves in the veins, which
prevent the backward flow of blood away from the heart, may cause the poor
circulation. In other cases, weaknesses in the vein walls may cause the
pooling of the blood. Less commonly, varicose veins are caused by such
diseases as phlebitis (inflammation of the veins) or congenital
abnormalities of the veins. Venous disease is generally progressive and
cannot be prevented entirely. However, in some cases, wearing support
hosiery and maintaining normal weight and regular exercise may be
beneficial.
Next: Is treatment always necessary? »
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From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com  |
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- Sclerotherapy for Spider Veins - Sclerotherapy, a procedure that eliminates varicose veins and spider veins. Source:WebMD Medical Reference from The Cleveland Clinic
- Edema - Read about edema, an observable swelling in certain parts of the body. Edema may fall into one of two categories: pitting and non-pitting edema. When applying pressure to the swollen skin results in persistent indentation, that's called pitting edema. Treatment for edema typically involves the use of diuretics. Source:MedicineNet
- Birthmarks and Other Skin Pigmentation Problems - Birthmarks and other skin pigmentation problems are caused by the body's inability to produce enough melanin. Learn how to recognize the symptoms and treatment for skin pigmentation problems on MedicineNet.com. Source:WebMD Medical Reference from The Cleveland Clinic
- Read 24 more Varicose Veins related articles ...
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