Nearly all veins can be varicose but the ones that are most commonly affected are those in the legs and feet. Varicose veins refer to large, gnarled veins. Legs and feet are the most affected because of the fact that walking or standing upright increases the pressure that is in the veins. It is not a condition that is too serious and for the majority of people, it is merely a cosmetic concern. It however causes pain and discomfort in others. It may be a sign of more serious circulatory problems.

In most cases however, there will be no pain. It is important to therefore know the symptoms that could indicate one is suffering from it. Veins that are affected have a blue or purple color, appear twisted and bulging and are likely to look like cords in the legs. More often than not the pain that is felt is experienced after one stands or walks for a long time. Itching will also be experienced in the legs.

Self care such as exercising and elevating the legs can help in easing the pain. There are also those who use compression stockings. These prevent the condition from getting worse. However, there are those that are concerned about appearance or have not gotten relief from using self care options. If this is the case, then seeing a doctor may be the next alternative.

This condition is attributed to various causes. Age is one such cause. As one ages, the veins lose their elasticity, stretching as a result. This will cause the valves inside them to become weak. When the valves weaken, blood that should be going to the heart will flow backward and pool within the vessels. This makes them to enlarge. The blue color in them is because they do not have oxygen. It is the blood that was to be oxygenated in the lungs.

Some pregnant women also develop the condition. Pregnancy is attributed to the increase in blood volume through the body, but also with a decrease in flow of blood from legs to the pelvis. It is a circulatory change that is meant to support fetal growth. It will however lead to enlargement of blood vessels. This condition will however improve without any medical treatment within three months of delivery.

When it comes to treatment options, people are advised to be cautious consumers. There are various advertisements that are misleading by offering quick fixes and promising to give permanent solutions. A doctor should be consulted before considering them. The side effects or health risks should be assessed as well. Cost of treatment should be considered before making a decision. You should also find out of the treatment is covered by insurance.

Self care works in most of the cases. If by any chance they do not, other procedures may be considered. These procedures are less invasive and therefore are done on an outpatient basis. Vein stripping, endoscopic vein surgery and laser surgery are some of the options.

Most of these treatments are effective and one will recover after a short period. However, it is possible that the condition will recur. If it does, treatment will be done again, preferably a different form of treatment.