Varicose veins are enlarged veins that appear to be twisted and bulging. Not all of them are prevalent to the naked eye, but if you see the swollen appearance of them rising above the surface of the skin, it’s best to treat them as soon as possible before other symptoms appear. Varicose veins are generally caused by damaged or weak valves in the veins, which causes blood to collect in the veins. Varicose veins can affect nearly half of all people age 50 and older.
Venous reflux disease is a common cause of varicose veins. This medical condition affects circulation in the legs, as the tiny valves that typically send blood back up to the heart are no longer functioning properly. This causes blood to accumulate in the legs, giving the appearance of distended, swollen veins. If left untreated, venous reflux can cause major circulatory problems. So if you notice bulging veins protruding from the skin, you should call your doctor immediately.