"Varicose : derived from the latex word varix, which means twisted"

Any vein in the human body can be a 'varicose vein', but the most common occurrences are seen in those veins which are subjects to maximum stress and strain; like those in the legs and feet. Varicose veins are gnarled, enlarged veins (blood vessels) found close to your skin's surface. They normally occur due to the increase in pressure on a particular vein which in turn twists them.

Before we try and understand the varicose veins in particular, it is pertinent for us to understand the significance of veins and arteries in the human body. The veins and the arteries are the blood vessels, which carry around blood within the human body. As the heart continues to pump, it sends blood around the body through the arteries. The arteries keep branching into smaller vessels, until the blood flows into capillaries. The walls of capillaries are only one cell thick, so that oxygen, glucose and other substances can pass through them to nourish the tissues. The waste materials of metabolism, such as carbon dioxide and lactic acid, filter in the opposite direction into the capillaries. A network of capillaries runs close to the cells in every part of the body, delivering nutrients, while taking away waste products in the bloodstream.

Capillaries join to form veins. These smaller veins in turn combine together to form two major veins which return the blood to the heart. These are called the superior vena cava; which carries blood from the upper part of the body, and, the inferior vena cava; which carries blood from the legs, pelvis and the abdomen region.

The veins contain valves which are very important to their functioning. Valves are more important in the functioning of the veins in the lower part of the body as it pumps blood back to the heart and any malfunctioning can cause it to flow in the reverse direction. More often, a fault in these valves lead to a condition called varicose veins. The valves, which don't allow the blood to flow in the reverse direction, are naturally designed to withstand pressure within the body. Fortunately, for most people varicose vein, are simple cosmetic conditions which can be treated through a cosmetic surgery. However, for some, it is a very painful and discomforting condition. For them, a varicose vein might signal a more serious disorder in the circulatory system. Varicose veins are a common ailment amongst older women. Women are more likely to suffer from them than men.

Research and literature suggest that there are a few veins in the human body which are more likely to show the signs of varicose. The veins most likely to become varicose are the 'Long Saphenous Vein' or the LSV and the 'Short Saphenous Vein' or the SSV. These LSV is more prone to varicose than the SSV. LSV is formed from tributaries in the foot, and is visible in many people when they stand, as the vein just in front of the bone on the inner side of the ankle. It runs up the inner side of the calf and the thigh, and at the groin dives to join the main deep vein. Besides the two veins mentioned above, a perforating in any part of the leg, can develop incompetent valves leading to a similar condition. This allows blood to be pumped outwards under pressure into superficial veins, causing them to become stretched and varicose.

Possible causes of varicose veins are varied and definite answers still elude the medical research fraternity. Medical literature suggests that females are more prone to varicose than males. Its occurrences are more pronounced in the western world as compared to the Asian community. Age plays a major role in an increased frequency of varicose. It has also been found to be hereditary in some cases. Pregnancy, clothing style (particularly tight clothes), diet and bowel habits, and, postures while standing are some of the causes attributed to the occurrence of a varicose vein. Medical theories abound regarding the reason for varicose and they range from the incompetence of the vein valve to the weakening of the vein wall. Possible mild symptoms include cosmetic embarrassment and aching and discomfort in the area affected. In some acute cases, it may lead to ankle swelling, ulcers, eczema, permanent skin pigmentation, Atrophie blanche or the whitening of the skin and, Lipodermatosclerosis, where the skin and the layer beneath it is affected.

Wearing compression stockings for Varicose is very often the first approach to try before moving on to other treatments. Compression stockings are worn all day long. They steadily squeeze the legs, helping veins and leg muscles move blood more efficiently. Contrary to popular belief, compression stockings are now designed to be comfortable and stylish, Stockings for Varicose Veins come in a variety of strengths, styles and colors and suit the taste and requirement of the person wearing it.

Compression stockings are sold at most pharmacies and medical supply stores. Prescription-strength stockings also are available. Prices vary, and stockings generally last from four to six months. When purchasing compression stockings, it is to be made sure that they fit properly. Natural remedies like the use of vinegar are also suggested at some places.

Varicose is an aliment still under the scanner by medical researchers and in spite of its mild initial symptoms should be treated with care in the beginning lest it balloons into a major problem.