Enlarged, twisted, ropey veins are known as varicose veins. They can occur anywhere in your body but are most often seen in the legs. The source of varicose veins is increased pressure that arises when the blood doesn’t get pumped effectively back toward the heart.

Blood is pumped away from your heart and out to the rest of your body. The blood is recirculated by veins that pump the blood back to your heart. In your legs, the veins have to work against gravity to get the blood flowing up to the heart. Valves in the veins open to allow the blood to pass through and then close to prevent it from flowing backward. When these valves are damaged or weakened, some blood may flow backward and pool in the veins. This pooling of blood increases pressure and pushes against the walls of the vein, which then become visible as bulging, dark, twisted veins beneath your skin.

There are several risk factors that may contribute to the development of varicose veins:

•         Family history
•         Obesity or being overweight
•         Pregnancy
•         Getting older
•         Long and repeated periods of standing in one place or sitting

Varicose veins may cause symptoms including pain, throbbing, itching, and the sensation of heaviness in your legs. But some people with this issue experience no symptoms at all other than the cosmetic drawback of dark blue or purple, twisted, visible veins. The pooling of blood may lead to swollen ankles and blood clots. If you are concerned, you should see your doctor who may recommend that you visit one of our vascular specialists. Relief from varicose veins is possible. Not only can you restore the appearance of your legs, but you can also eliminate the health-related issues associated with blood pooling in your veins.

If you are experiencing varicose veins, effective treatment options are available. The next step is to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced vascular surgeons and specialists in Port Jefferson, Hauppauge, or Riverhead, NY. To arrange your visit, please contact us today. We look forward to helping you find relief from varicose veins.