What Causes Varicose Veins?
6. Disease Process
Though varicose veins mainly affect the veins running just under the skin, which may lead to pain and disfigurement, they are usually harmless. But besides the surface vein network, the legs have veins located deep within. If these are affected by the condition, they can cause swelling and aching of the entire leg. A person with a previous leg injury is more likely to develop varicose veins, and sitting with crossed legs may aggravate an existing condition.
Trousseau’s syndrome, or recurrent thromboses, may be the developmental cause for many episodes of superficial blood clotting. Blood clots develop just under the skin appearing like a red streak accompanied by inflammation referred to as phlebitis; warmth, tenderness, and swelling may also be experienced. Whenever a clot and inflammation occur together, the condition is referred to as superficial thrombophlebitis, commonly occurring in the setting of the varicose veins.
Advertisement
