Vein Solutions

In healthy veins, one way valves direct the flow of venous blood in the leg upward toward the heart. When one or more of these valves fails to function properly, the blood flows backwards away from the heart, causing the veins under the skin to become swollen and stretched from the pressure. The “back up” of blood flow increases the pressure in the veins to a level that is three to four times the normal amount. This high pressure then causes the veins to bulge and stretch and can result in inflammation and pain.

It can take years for signs and symptoms to develop, although some can stretch quickly under pressure. While genetics and inheritance play a big role in their occurrence, anyone can develop them even without a family history. They commonly occur during pregnancy and in people that have had certain types of leg injuries or deep vein blood clots. People that work in jobs that require prolonged standing or sitting are also at higher risk. A physical exam, along with an ultrasound, is necessary to determine the extent and severity of the varicose veins and if the varicose veins are caused by broken valves in the veins underlying the skin. Although less common, it is possible to have varicose veins and not experience painful symptoms.

Symptoms of varicose veins include:

• Pain or a heavy feeling in the legs relieved by elevation
• Aching or tiredness in the legs with prolonged standing
• Large twisted veins that bulge above the surface of the skin
• Swelling of the ankle or lower leg or feet
• Discolored brown red or purple, dry, itchy skin near the ankle
• A rash or skin ulceration on the ankle or lower leg