Varicose veins are enlarged and distended veins. They can occur anywhere in the body, but are particularly common in the pelvis and legs.
Veins have one way valves to channel blood back to the heart. Varicose veins develop when the valves of the veins become damaged. This causes blood to pool in the veins, enlarging them and often making the veins just beneath the skin visible.
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for varicose veins include:
Symptoms include:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Varicose veins can be easily seen. Initial diagnosis can be done during a simple physical examination. Your doctor may also wish to order an ultrasound examination of your leg veins.
If you are diagnosed with varicose veins, follow your doctor's instructions .
Varicose veins can't necessarily be completely prevented, especially if they run in your family. The following recommendations may help prevent varicose veins:
RESOURCES:
American College of Phlebology
http://www.phlebology.org
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
http://www.plasticsurgery.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
http://www.csaps.ca/
Canadian Society for Vascular Surgery
http://csvs.vascularweb.org/
References:
American College of Phlebology website. Available at: http://www.phlebology.org .
Primary Care Medicine . 4th ed. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000.
Last reviewed November 2008 by Michael J. Fucci, DO
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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