Varicose veins are
veins on the leg which are large, twisted, and ropelike, and can cause pain, swelling, or itching. They are an extreme form of
telangiectasia[?], or spider veins.
Varicose veins are more common in women than in men, and are linked with heredity. Other related factors are pregnancy, obesity, menopause, ageing, and abdominal straining.
The irritation -- especially the itching -- of varicose veins can be controlled to an extent with either of the following:
- anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen or aspirin -- but there is a risk of intestinal bleeding
- regular exercise
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