Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veinsnear the surface of the skin. They are most common in the legs and ankles. They usually aren't serious, but they can sometimes lead to other problems. Varicose veins are caused by weakened valves and veins in your legs. Normally, one-way valves in your veins keep blood flowing from your legs up toward your heart. When these valves do not work as they should, blood collects in your legs, and pressure builds up. The veins become weak, large, and twisted.
According to the theory of Chinese medicine, there are several different patterns and underlying conditions that can lead to varicose veins. The organ systems according to Chinese medicine are interrelated, and when one is in the imbalanced state of yin and Yang, it affects the other organs. Therefore, one condition such as varicose veins can manifest itself in many different syndromes. Herbal prescriptions would be combined relying on indications. Following are some of the main patterns related to the conditions of varicose veins.
Three syndromes of varicose veins categorized in TCM diagnosis
Syndrome of Accumulation of Cold and Damp
Syndrome of Qi Deficiency and Blood Stagnation
Syndrome of Accumulation of Heat and Damp