Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are swollen, enlarged veins that can be seen just under your skin. It is a common disorder, more common amongst women than men. Any veins can theoretically become varicose, but the ones most commonly affected are the veins in your legs and feet.

Our bodies have two types of veins, the ones on the surface (known as the superficial veins) and the ones that are deeper inside. Usually it is the veins on the surface that become varicose. However, in very rare cases, the veins lodged deeper inside may also become varicose.

Causes of varicose veins include the following:

• Old age: As you get older, the veins in your body lose their elasticity. They also become weak, and can sometimes fail to send blood back to your heart. When blood starts pooling inside your veins, they become enlarged as a result and start to appear blue because they are carrying large amounts of deoxygenated blood.

• Pregnancy: Another cause of varicose veins is pregnancy. The blood flow from your legs to your pelvis is sometimes reduced when you are pregnant. As the foetus grows, the additional weight exerts a greater pressure on the veins in your legs, causing them to become enlarged. Hormonal changes during pregnancy are also a contributing factor.

• Defective or damaged valves: If the valves in your veins fail to transport deoxygenated blood back to your heart and lungs, this may cause your veins to bulge and stand out.

When to seek expert advise

This disease is not harmful or life threatening, but it is uncomfortable to live with. Our doctors at the Heart, Lungs and Vascular Service Line at The Aga Khan University Hospital can help you to manage your symptoms on an outpatient basis. You can obtain expert medical advice at the vascular service line at The Aga Khan University Hospital.

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