WHAT ARE VARICOSE VEINS
Varicose veins are abnormal swollen veins present both on the surface and beneath the surface of the skin. In contrast, spider veins are smaller, red or purple blood vessels that are less than 1 mm in diameter and have a web-like appearance. Both conditions can be related to venous insufficiency prompting a visit to NYC Vein Clinic . What creates Varicose Veins problems? The normal function of leg veins is to bring blood back to the heart. With activity, the calf muscles function as a pump, to circulate blood back from the legs toward the heart. The same blood vessels have one-way valves that protect against blood from reversing back due to gravity. If the valves are faulty, this mechanism fails and blood collects in the lower legs resulting in venous insufficiency. This abnormal flow is referred to as reflux and with time builds up pressure in the legs to cause symptoms including abnormal spider and varicose veins. Who is at risk of Varicose Vein disease? There are various risk facto