Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins just below the surface of the skin and typically occur in the legs. The most common cause of varicose veins are due to weak or damaged vein walls and valves. This will cause a backflow of blood into the vein. This may also be attributed to increased blood pressure inside the veins. Sometimes, the varicose veins may be painful. People most at risk of developing varicose veins are older individuals, pregnancy and obesity.
Citation: Varicose Veins. (n.d.). Retrieved October 31, 2020, from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/varicose-veins