What is Varicose veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen, or twisted veins caused by faulty valves in the veins or associated with them. In short, varicose veins mean enlarged or swollen veins. They are usually blue or dark purple in color. People with swelling or lumps on their feet may feel pain in their legs or experience leg cramps. Occasionally, in very severe cases, varicose veins can rupture or varicose ulcers can develop on the skin.

In healthy veins, valves ensure that blood flow is in one direction. They prevent the backward flow of blood. When blood flow occurs, the valves open and then close. A similar situation occurs with stomach reflux.

If these valves are damaged or weakened, then blood can flow back and accumulate in the veins, creating conditions for varicose vein formation.

The lack of comprehensive research in our country makes it difficult to determine the number of varicose vein cases. However, considering that approximately 5000 prescriptions are written daily, this number is significant. According to the data from the National Institutes of Health in America, we can say that 33% of women and 17% of men are affected by varicose veins. Additionally, data from health authorities in England indicate that 30% of adults in England have varicose veins.

Varicose veins can generally occur in any part of the body. However, they mostly occur in the feet and calves. Experts say that there is more pressure on the lower extremity veins due to long periods of walking or standing. Therefore, varicose veins are more commonly observed in the feet and calves.

Interestingly, in most cases, varicose veins do not appear as a health or circulation problem, and therefore do not require medical treatment. Varicose stockings come into play at this point and help with treatment.

However, if there is swelling in the feet, painful legs, or symptoms that greatly discomfort the patient, such as the beginning of ulcers, then medical intervention is necessary and should be treated medically.

Photo A: Shows a normal functioning valve and vein. There is normal blood flow.

Photo B: Shows a damaged or weakened valve. There is abnormal blood flow. The vein walls are thin and stretched.

In the middle photo, you can see where varicose veins can appear.

In summary, varicose veins are characterized by permanently dilated or genetically weak or damaged valves. They typically appear on the legs and feet. They are more common in professions requiring prolonged standing or sitting, during pregnancy, and in overweight individuals.

The incidence of varicose veins is four times higher in women than in men.

We can classify varicose veins into three types.

1) Greenish varicose veins that can be referred to as large and primary varicose veins.

2) Reticular varicose veins, which resemble spider webs formed under the skin, can be referred to as reticular varicose veins.

 3) The smaller, threadlike varicose veins.