Vessels that flow towards the heart are called VEINS. These vessels
contain semi-circular valves within. Blood flow moves only towards the heart
in these vessels because of these valves.
 
Vascular disease (thromboflebitis, perivascular
inflammations), some hereditary disorders, or excessively increased
venous pressures (in obese pregnancy or obesity) causes leaks in these
valves. Veins are elastic structures, increased internal pressure
through incompetent valves cause gross enlargement of the diseased
sections.
The main complaints that result are unsightly appearance, pain and
bursting discomfort at the end of the day, swelling, night cramps, and
itching of the affected areas. These complaints may also worsen during
hot weather due to additional dilation of the vessels.
Varicose veins occur four times as often in females.
Anatomically there are three types:
1) Gross varicose veins: These are greenish, bulging, worm-like vascular
structures. They are usually 2mm and larger in diameter.
2) Reticular varicose veins:
These are web-like venous structures, usually red to bluish in color. They are
less than 1-2mm in diameter.
 
3) Thread-like varicose veins:
These type of varicose veins are red-colored and between 30 microns and 1 mm in
size. Although these are very small, they are quite visible in people with light
complexion because of the sharp contrast with the skin.
  
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