What are Varicose Veins ? Varicose veins are veins that have become dilated, enlarged and tortuous. The term commonly refers to the veins on the leg, although varicose veins can occur elsewhere. In the legs, there are basically two systems of veins: one under the skin — Superficial; and the other – Deep Venous System. Blood flow in the veins is always towards the heart as against that in the arteries wherein it is away from the heart. In the legs blood flow in all positions — standing , walking ..and lying down is towards the heart. It is from the foot upwards. This is due to the action of the calf muscles and the vein valves . These valves prevent blood from flowing backwards (retrograde). In certain situations, the valves are damaged. Raised pressure classically during pregnancy in the females , infections, and prolonged standing like in policemen, teachers,.. amongst others. In such a situation, the blood flow in the veins becomes retrograde — from above downwards. The veins under the skin then become dilated. With dilation, the valves are made even more non-compliant and subsquently all the valves in the superficial vein may allow reversal of flow. When veins become varicose, the leaflets of the valves no longer meet properly, and the valves do not work. This allows blood to flow backwards and they enlarge even more.The classical picture of varicose veins then develops. What are the symptoms of Varicose Veins ? • Aching, heavy legs (often worse at night and after …
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