Varicose veins

Varicose veins (varices) are dilated, twisted veins, usually on the lower legs and the backs of the knees. Because the venous valves no longer close properly, blood pools in the legs.

Risk factors

• family disposition
• long periods of standing or sitting
• pregnancy
• excess weight, lack of exercise

Complaints

• heavy, tired, swollen legs – especially in the evening
• itching, night-time calf cramps
• brownish skin discolouration around the ankles over time
• in the worst case open leg ulcers (ulcus cruris)

What helps?

Movement (“walk and lie rather than sit and stand”), putting your legs up, cold showers and compression stockings. Treatment is provided by vascular medicine. For the feet: care for the skin well, because with venous insufficiency it is drier and more vulnerable.