The medical term for varicose veins is varices or venous insufficiency. The key function of the venous system is to transport deoxygenated blood from the various organs and parts of the body back to the heart. In healthy veins, valves located within the veins prevent the venous blood from returning back down the leg. When these valves no longer function correctly the vein is termed ‘incompetent’ and venous blood collects in the veins, causing them to enlarge.

The result is visible ‘varicose veins’ that are the cause of the pain, swelling, and discomfort you may feel in your lower limbs.

This is an indication of malfunction of the venous system and should be investigated by a vascular specialist to help prevent potentially more serious problems arising later.