Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that bulge just under the skin, typically appearing in the legs and feet . They can be caused by a number of factors, including weak vein walls, damaged valves, and increased pressure in the veins. When the valves in your veins become weak or damaged, blood can pool in the veins and flow backward. This causes the veins to enlarge and become varicose. Varicose veins can be painful and uncomfortable, and they can also lead to more serious health problems, such as blood clots and skin ulcers. Here are some of the symptoms of varicose veins: Aching or heavy feeling in the legs Pain, especially at the end of the day or after standing for long periods Itching around the veins Burning sensation Swelling in the legs Skin discoloration Spider veins (smaller red or purple lines that appear close to the skin's surface) If you think you may have varicose veins, it's important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and discuss treatment options. There are a number of treatments available for varicose veins, including lifestyle changes, compression stockings, sclerotherapy, laser treatment, and surgery.