DISEASES OF THE VEINS: DESTRUCTION OF VEIN VALVES FROM THROMBOPHLEBITIS (CHRONIC VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY) – VARICOSE VEINS
The term “varicose veins” refers to veins that are abnormally dilated. When the veins close to the surface of the legs become varicose, you can see them as soft, bluish, curving bulges under the skin.Causes of Varicose Veins. Conditions that may lead to varicose veins include pregnancy (because the large uterus can press on veins in the abdomen and cause back pressure to build up in the leg veins), previous thrombophlebitis, or obesity. All of these problems elevate the pressure in the leg veins or damage the valves of the veins or both.Some people are born without venous valves or without an adequate number of valves. These people frequently get large varicose veins at an early age.Symptoms of Varicose Veins. Besides the unsightly appearance, varicose veins may cause aching and swelling in the legs.Who Is Affected by Varicose Veins?One in 10 Americans has varicose veins. Women are twice as likely to have them as men, because of the effect of pregnancy.*211\252\8*
