Common Conditions

Veins are part of the circulation and their function is to return blood from the peripheries. They contain valves, which ensure that blood flows in one direction only, back towards the heart. Varicose veins are abnormally dilated veins which are visible through the skin. They are usually secondary to damaged valves, which causes the blood to pool and the veins to become enlarged and tortuous. They can range from minor dilatations to large grape like bunches of distended veins. Varicose veins are common, often hereditary, and can become worse during pregnancy.

Varicose veins may not be associated with any symptoms. However, aching in the leg is a common complaint, particularly at the end of the day. As well as being unsightly they can cause swelling, itching, cramps and may bleed. They can also occasionally thrombose, causing a tender, red area, commonly referred to as phlebitis. In some patients they can cause skin changes in the lower part of the leg. This ranges from mild to intense discoloration associated with 'venous eczema' and sometimes ulceration.