Word parts
varic/o swollen, twisted vein-ose full of
What it means
Veins in the legs have one-way valves that help blood flow back to the heart. When the valves weaken, blood pools, and the veins stretch and bulge. They can ache, feel heavy, itch or cause swelling, and in long-standing cases skin changes and ulcers. Risk factors include standing for long periods, pregnancy, older age, obesity and a family history.
For the nurse
Teach the client to raise the legs, walk often, avoid standing or sitting still for long periods and avoid crossing the legs. Compression stockings are put on in the morning before the legs swell.
At a glance
| Spanish | várice, vena varicosa |
|---|---|
| Also written | varicose veins, varicosities, varicosity |
Related terms
edema
Swelling caused by extra fluid trapped in the body's tissues.
deep vein thrombosis
A blood clot in a deep vein, most often in the leg or pelvis.
vein
A blood vessel that carries blood back toward the heart.