Varicose Vein Disease

Vein disease of the legs is one of the most common medical conditions.  Approximately half of the population has some form of vein disease.  Varicose veins affect between 15%-25% of all adults, and approximately 50% of people over the age of 50.  Women have a higher incidence of vein disease than men.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are blood vessels just beneath the skin that have widened and stretched. In abnormal circumstances, these veins become exposed to a high volume or pressure of blood, leading to the stretching and bulging. This becomes visible as the swelling intensifies and can lead to stretching of surrounding nerves, leading to pain or discomfort.