varicose veins

Varicose (var′i-kōs; varix = dilated vein) veins are dilated, tortuous (having many curves or twists) veins. The valves in these veins have become nonfunctional, causing blood to pool in one area and the vein to swell and bulge. Varicose veins are most common in the superficial veins of the lower limbs. They may be a result of genetic predisposition, aging, or some form of stress on the venous system that inhibits venous return (such as standing for long periods of time, obesity, or pregnancy). Varicose veins may become inflamed and painful, especially if fluid leaks from them into the tissues.

Symptoms of varicose veins may be alleviated by elevating the affected body part or wearing compression stockings (to promote blood movement in the lower limbs). In a procedure called sclerotherapy, an irritant is injected into small varicose veins to make them scar and seal off. Typically, a patient needs multiple sclerotherapy sessions before optimal results are seen. For larger varicose veins, an outpatient surgical procedure called stripping or vein removal (phlebectomy) is necessary.

 These veins can be removed without affecting the circulation, since the blood may be shunted to other veins that are not varicose. Even after treatment, it is possible for varicose veins to recur.
Varicose veins in the anorectal region are called hemorrhoids (hem′ō -royd). Hemorrhoids occur due to increased intra-abdominal pressure, as when a person strains to have a bowel movement or is in labor during childbirth. Hemorrhoids may need to be surgically excised if they become too painful or bleed excessively.


source : human anatomy