What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that appear most commonly on the legs and feet. They develop when the one-way valves inside veins fail, allowing blood to pool and causing the vein walls to stretch and bulge. While often dismissed as a cosmetic concern, varicose veins are a medical condition that can significantly impact quality of life.
How Common Are They?
Varicose veins affect an estimated 23–35% of adults in Western populations. They are more prevalent in women, particularly after pregnancy, and prevalence increases with age. Approximately 1–3% of the population will develop a chronic venous ulcer — the most severe manifestation — during their lifetime.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Genetics: A family history of varicose veins is the single strongest risk factor
- Female sex: Hormonal influences and pregnancy increase venous dilation
- Prolonged standing or sitting: Occupational risk factor for healthcare workers, teachers, retail staff
- Obesity: Increased abdominal pressure impairs venous return
- Age: Vein wall elasticity decreases over time
- Previous DVT: Post-thrombotic damage to venous valves
Symptoms
Symptoms range from purely cosmetic to debilitating:
- Visible rope-like, blue-purple veins on the leg surface
- Aching, heaviness, or throbbing in the legs
- Swelling around the ankles (edema)
- Itching or burning around varicose veins
- Skin discoloration (lipodermatosclerosis)
- Venous ulcers in advanced disease (CEAP C6)
The CEAP Classification
The Clinical-Etiological-Anatomical-Pathophysiological (CEAP) classification system grades chronic venous disease from C0 (no visible disease) to C6 (active venous ulcer). Treatment decisions are largely guided by CEAP class and symptom burden.
When to Seek Treatment
You should consult a vascular specialist if you experience persistent leg pain, progressive swelling, skin changes, or bleeding from varicose veins. Early intervention with modern techniques like VenaBlock® can prevent disease progression and significantly improve quality of life.