Posts Tagged ‘Veins’
Varicose veins
Friday, March 27th, 2009
Varicose veins are abnormally and permanently enlarged superficial veins typically 3mm or more in diameter. Any vein may become varicose, but veins most commonly affected are those in legs and feet. They may occur alone or with chronic venous insufficiency. The word “varicose” comes from the Latin root “varix,” which means “twisted.
Etiology
Etiology is usually unknown. Most people have no obvious risk factors. Primary varicose veins occur because of congenitally defective valves (primary venous valvular insufficiency) or primary dilatation of the vein wall due to structural weakness, or without a known cause. (more…)