What condition is characterized by visible, swollen veins that may be painful?

Varicose veins are characterized by visible, swollen veins that often appear blue or dark purple and can cause discomfort or pain. This condition arises when the valves in the veins weaken or become damaged, leading to increased pressure and blood pooling in the veins, particularly in the legs. As a result, the veins dilate and swell, becoming more prominent and sometimes painful, especially after prolonged periods of standing or sitting.

The appearance of varicose veins is typically combined with symptoms such as aching, heavy legs, or itching. While other conditions such as hemorrhoids, arteriosclerosis, and aneurysms involve blood vessels, they do not specifically present as swollen veins visible on the surface of the skin in the same manner as varicose veins. Hemorrhoids, for instance, are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus rather than in the legs. Aneurysms involve the abnormal bulging of an artery wall and usually do not present as surface vein swelling. Arteriosclerosis relates to the thickening and hardening of arteries, impacting blood flow but not necessarily associated with visible swollen veins.