If you're concerned about the development of varicose veins as you get older, don't fret. "It's a natural part of aging," says Dr. John Corson, professor of surgery at the University of Iowa College of Medicine and staff physician at UI Hospitals and Clinics.

Varicose veins are prominent, bluish, swollen leg veins and can be at the back of the calf or more usually on the inside of the thigh and leg, Corson says. Veins become varicose when valves in the veins closest to the skin's surface don't function correctly.

While both men and women can develop varicose veins, the problem occurs more often in women. "The vein may become more prominent, tender to the touch, or itchy. Your leg may ache and your feet may swell after standing for a period of time," Corson says,

Some people, particularly women, are at greater risk for varicose veins. If your mother had varicose veins, if you have had several children, or if you stand for long periods of time, you may be more likely to develop them, Corson says.

If it looks like a vein is becoming varicose, try wearing support stockings and elevating your legs as often as possible. "Pregnant women also can benefit from wearing support stockings and elevating their legs. Try to stay off your feet. Standing for long periods of time can aggravate varicose veins," Corson explains. "Take aspirin or acetaminophen for pain."

If varicose veins become bothersome, it's a good idea to see your physician. "If the veins function poorly, you may develop skin sores. That's why it's important to see your physician if you believe you have symptomatic varicose veins. Bumping or cutting the skin over a varicose vein could cause severe bleeding. If this happens, elevate the leg and seek medical attention immediately. Bumping the vein can also cause the vein wall to develop a blood clot at that site which can lead to more serious problems," Corson says.

"For severe varicose veins, your physician may recommend surgery or injection treatments. Surgical treatment completely removes the affected vein(s). During injection treatment, called sclerotherapy, the physician injects a solution which causes the vein to collapse. This is more often used for cosmetic reasons on smaller veins, rather than on larger varicose veins," he says.

After either treatment, you will have to wear support stockings or elastic bandages for several weeks. "You should walk as much as possible, avoid standing, and elevate your legs when resting," Corson says.

If you have questions about varicose veins, talk to your physician.