Varicose veins, also known as varicoses or varicosities, occur when your veins become enlarged, dilated, and overfilled with blood. Varicose veins typically appear swollen and raised, and have a bluish-purple or red color. They are often painful.

The condition is very common, especially in women. Around 25 – 30 percent of all adults have varicose veins. In most cases, varicose veins appear on the lower legs.