Varicose veins are enlarged and twisted blue coloured veins visible just beneath the surface of the skin, especially in the thighs, and legs. They are superficial blood-filled capillaries termed as spider veins.

Individuals suffering from varicose veins may have painless, enlarged, twisted and bulging cord-like veins on their legs. These veins appear to be dark blue and purple.

Veins present in the lower body have to work against the gravity to pump blood back to the heart. The tiny valve present at the end of a vein opens up when blood flows into the heart and closes to prevent the backward flow. Weakening of this valve causes blood to flow back and pool, making it difficult for muscles of the vein to pump it back to the heart, causing the the vein to stretch and twist.

The condition of varicose veins is diagnosed through a physical examination by a doctor. Ultrasound is required to ascertain whether the vein valves are functional and, for the presence of blood clots. There is also a small hand-held used device for diagnosis – a transducer - that is held against the legs and the images of veins are transmitted to a monitor for further examination.

Applying ice or dipping feet in cold water is one of the primary treatments for varicose veins. The cold temperature causes the veins to shrink, thereby alleviating the swelling and discomfort in legs.