We all have a vast network of veins beneath our skin that transports deoxygenated blood from the tissues of the body back to our hearts. Though their function is critical, we typically don’t think about our veins unless a nurse is trying to find a good spot to stick a needle. For the most part, we can count on our veins to fly under the radar and not give us too much trouble.

Sometimes, though, our veins become enlarged and twisted, bulging above the surface of the skin. These are called varicose veins. Varicose veins can be blue, red, or flesh-colored, and they’re more than just unsightly – they can put you at risk for serious health problems like blood clots, ulcers, and worse.

What causes varicose veins?

The valves in your veins are responsible for keeping your blood moving in one direction – towards your heart. When the valves become weak or damaged they can’t effectively prevent blood from flowing backwards as it moves up your legs. If this happens, blood can leak back into your veins and collect there. When this backed-up blood makes your veins bigger, they can become varicose.

What factors increase the chance for developing varicose veins?

There are a number of factors that increase your chance for developing varicose veins.

• Aging: Getting older causes wear and tear on the valves in your veins. As a result, they don’t regulate blood flow as well as they used to.
• Pregnancy: The increase in blood in the body can cause veins to enlarge. However, varicose veins usually improve within three months after delivery.
• Obesity: Being overweight can put extra pressure on your veins, leading them to become enlarged and swollen.
• Lifestyle: Sitting or standing for extended periods of time puts stress on your veins. Crossing your legs can make the problem worse.

How are varicose veins treated?

Wear appropriate footwear. Compression socks gently squeeze your legs and put helpful pressure on your veins to promote blood flow back to the heart.

Undergo outpatient treatment. Sclerotherapy involves injecting a liquid chemical into the vein, which causes the vein walls to swell, stick together, and seal shut.

Consider surface laser treatments. This technique sends blasts of light through the skin onto the vein, making the vein slowly fade and disappear over time.

Surgery is sometimes needed. Severe varicose veins may need to be treated with surgery. Patients should discuss their options for permanently removing varicose veins with their doctor.