Varicose veins are swollen twisted veins under your skin. They look like blue or purple bulges and are usually seen in your legs or feet. They can cause pain, discomfort, swelling, dry and itchy skin and an eczema rash.
You’re more likely to develop varicose veins if you’re female, overweight, pregnant, stand for long periods or have a family history of varicose veins.
Varicose veins are common and aren’t usually dangerous, but they may lead to serious complications, such as chronic leg wounds and blood clots for some people.
You can relieve most of the symptoms yourself but, if needed, varicose veins can be treated by a minor surgical procedure to redirect blood flow to other veins.
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