varicosities
Varicosities are abnormally dilated, tortuous veins, most commonly in the legs, that result from venous valvular incompetence and venous reflux. The condition is part of chronic venous insufficiency and reflects increased venous pressure that stretches the vein walls over time. While peripheral leg veins are most often affected, varicosities can occur in other venous beds, though these are typically described with more specific terms (for example, esophageal or anorectal varices).
Risk factors include increasing age, female sex, pregnancy, obesity, prolonged standing or sitting, a family history
Symptoms range from cosmetic concerns to discomfort: leg heaviness or aching, fatigue, swelling, night cramps, itching,
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on inspection and patient symptoms. Duplex ultrasonography assesses venous reflux, determines
Management emphasizes conservative measures: leg elevation, regular physical activity, weight management, and compression stockings to reduce
Procedural options include sclerotherapy, laser therapy, endovenous thermal ablation (radiofrequency or laser), and surgical removal of