Final answer:
Varicose veins occur when venous pressure causes the valves in the veins to become overstretched, leading to pooling of blood and enlarged veins, typically in the legs. Complications can include pain, swelling, and skin ulcers. Treatment options vary from conservative methods to surgical interventions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Varicose Veins and Venous Pressure
Varicose veins are a common condition where veins, typically in the legs, become enlarged and twisted as a result of ineffective valves. Due to factors such as gravity, certain occupations, obesity, pregnancy, and genetic predisposition, these valves can become overstretched and fail to prevent the backflow of blood. This results in venous pooling and increased venous pressure, which leads to the veins becoming varicose. Over time, complications such as pain, swelling, skin changes, and ulcers can occur. To manage this condition, treatments range from lifestyle changes and support hose to medical interventions like laser surgery or even conventional surgery in severe cases.
Edema may also occur alongside varicose veins when increased venous pressure pushes fluids out of capillaries and into surrounding tissues, leading to swelling. This is more pronounced in the lower limbs due to the impact of gravity on blood flow, which explains why varicose veins are most often found in the legs.
Furthermore, conditions such as stenosis affect the heart valves, making them less flexible and potentially leading to more significant cardiovascular issues, albeit this is a separate condition from varicose veins.