Varicose Veins are enlarged veins that are swollen and raised
above the surface of the skin. They can be dark purple or blue,
and look twisted and bulging. Varicose veins are commonly found
on the backs of the calves or on the inside of the leg. They
develop when valves in the veins that allow blood to flow toward
the heart stop working properly. As a result, blood pools in the
veins and causes them to get larger. Varicose veins affect 1 out
of 2 people over age 50. They are more common in women than men.
Hemorrhoids are a type of varicose vein. Spider veins are like
varicose veins, but they are smaller. Exercising, losing weight,
elevating your legs when resting and not crossing them when
sitting can help keep varicose veins from getting worse. Wearing
loose clothing and avoiding long periods of standing can also
help. If varicose veins are painful or you don't like the way
they look, your doctor may recommend procedures to remove them.
What causes Varicose Veins ? More women suffer from varicose
veins than