Early symptoms of varicose veins include:

• Pain in the legs with a feeling of tiredness and heaviness in the lower legs.
• Swelling of the ankle and lower leg.
• Discolored, brownish skin near the ankle.
• A rash or skin ulceration on the ankle or lower leg.

There may be other reasons for any one of the above symptoms; however, two or more of the symptoms at nearly the same time may be an indication of Varicose Veins or other Venous disorder. Consult your doctor, especially if you see.

Visibly enlarged veins; appearance of a cluster of small spider-webbed veins; or larger, knotted, twisted veins tending to a deep bluish color.

Common Causes of Varicose Veins.

• Heredity – probably the leading cause of Varicose Veins.
• Pregnancy – hormonal changes, increased blood flow, and body’s natural weight gain greatly increase the likelihood of varicose veins, especially in conjunction with a hereditary predisposition.
• Vein Trauma – broken bone, muscle tears, and surgery in the lower leg.
• Life Style Factors – overweight, physical inactivity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption add stress to veins.
• Oral Contraception – causes hormonal changes as in pregnancy.
• Age – likelihood of varicose veins increases with each passing year.

While the intensity of Varicose Veins may diminish following childbirth, the likelihood of recurrence increases with every new pregnancy—especially if the mother returns to oral contraception.