Varicose veins are swollen, enlarged veins that typically appear in the legs and feet, often bulging and twisted beneath the skin. They occur when the valves within veins, which prevent the backflow of blood, become weakened or damaged.
This causes blood to pool in the veins, leading to increased pressure and the characteristic swelling.
The primary cause of varicose veins is a failure of the vein valves to function properly. Normally, veins carry blood back to the heart, and valves inside the veins ensure that blood flows in the right direction. If these valves become weak or damaged, blood can accumulate in the vein rather than moving toward the heart, which leads to vein enlargement.
Managing risk factors like maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding prolonged standing or sitting, and staying physically active can help prevent or manage varicose veins.