What are Varicose veins?

Telangiectasia or spider veins. These are dilations of very small, superficial, and visible veins located within the skin itself. They are so tiny that they usually aren’t noticeable to the naked eye, although when they dilate, their path can be seen as a reddish line as thin as a hair. They are generally found isolated, although sometimes they can cluster and form grape-like structures. In most cases, they are mainly a cosmetic issue. Occasionally, they may rupture and cause a spontaneous bruise without significant consequences.

Reticular varicose veins. These are visible dilations of subcutaneous veins measuring a few millimeters. Although they are slightly larger than telangiectasias, they usually do not have significant protrusion. Their color is greenish. They may be associated with occasional discomfort such as itching or a feeling of heavy legs. They can rupture, causing minor bruising or small bleeds if they are more prominent.

Trunk varicose veins. These are pathological venous dilations, larger than the previous ones and already causing a palpable bulge on the skin. They are generally associated with valvular dysfunction of the superficial venous system, which leads to overload in venous return and the development of these varicose veins. They often cause discomfort (itching, pain, swelling, tired legs...). In some cases, they may lead to complications such as phlebitis, bleeding, or skin changes like darkening (known as dermatitis) or skin atrophy, and in the most severe cases, ulceration.

Congenital. They appear from birth.

Primary or essential. They appear after birth, although of unknown cause.

Secondary. They appear after birth, but due to a cause, usually trauma or thrombosis of the deep venous system.