MY VASCULAR HEALTH
Varicose Veins & Leg Swelling
Overview
Veins return oxygen-poor blood back to the heart. When standing, the muscles of the legs work against gravity to pump the blood back to the heart. Veins have valves inside them which help keep the blood flowing in the correct direction. When the leg muscles contract, the valves in the veins open; when the leg relaxes, they close. A weakened vein wall and damaged valves can cause varicose veins and, in some cases, venous ulcers.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Bulging, purple appearance of the surface veins
- Leg pain, heaviness, swelling or discomfort
- Leg/foot ulcers
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are the swollen blue, twisted, bulging veins that are seen through the skin. They can cause pain, redness, sores, heaviness, or fatigue of the legs. While men do experience varicose veins, the condition is more common among women.