Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are swollen and enlarged veins under the skin that appear as bluish or dark purple colored streaks. They are most common in the legs or calves and the lower body and may indicate serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a blockage in the deeper veins. They are the result of weakened valves and veins in the affected area. The weakening of valves may be due to overstretching or loss of elasticity, causing blood to flow backward and causing blood accumulation in the veins The accumulation causes the veins to swell and enlarge. Development of varicose veins may happen if you are overweight, stand for long periods of time, had a stroke previously or have a family history of varicose veins. 
 

Symptoms

• Achy or heavy feeling in your legs
• Burning, throbbing, muscle cramping and swelling in your lower legs
• Itching around one or more of your veins
• Skin discoloration around a varicose vein
• Veins that appear twisted and bulging; they are often like cords on your legs
• Veins that are dark purple or blue in color
• Worsened pain after sitting or standing for a long time
   

Diagnosis

Physical Exam
A physical exam will be done to check the legs for swelling and pain when standing.
 

Imaging Tests
Imaging tests are done with ultrasound to examine the veins in the legs and lower body and to check for evidence of blood clots.