An estimated 30-40% of the US adult population experiences some type of vein disorder, including the following conditions that affect the legs: 

 

Properly functioning veins have one-way valves to allow blood to flow to the heart. Varicose veins occur when these valves malfunction causing the blood to pool in the veins. This condition is known as venous insufficiency. Venous insufficiency is not considered a serious health problem; however, it can cause varicose veins, leg swelling, leg pain, skin discoloration and ulcerations.  

 

 

 

Venous Insufficiency
Varicose veins are a sign of chronic venous insufficency, a condition that causes blood to flow backward in the veins, making them bulge and twist down the leg. Venous insufficiency affects up to 40% of women and 25% of men.

 

 

Thrombophlebitis (phlebitis) occurs when a vein becomes inflamed or a blood clot causes swelling in one or more of your veins. This condition occurs most often in the legs. It can, however, also occur in any vein in your body. When a superficial vein is affected, the condition is known as Superficial Thrombophlebitis. If a deep vein is involved, this is called a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). Superficial clots infrequently travel to the lungs (causing a Pulmonary Embolism).  

  

A venous skin ulcer is a wound that develops on the skin's surface when the leg veins do not return blood back toward the heart as they normally would (venous insufficiency). They are slow to heal and often recur if preventive steps are not taken.

 

 

 

Spider Veins
Beginning as tiny red capillaries that lie close to the surface of the skin, spider veins are smaller in size and do not represent a significant health problem. Spider veins are most commonly found on the thighs, calves, and ankles. Since they are visible, spider veins are often considered cosmetically attractive. In addition, they can cause physical symptoms ranging from aching, heaviness and itchiness, to night cramps.