VARICOSE VEINS: A MODERN–AYURVEDIC REAPPRAISAL WITH REFERENCE TO SIRAGATA VATA AND SIRAGRANTHI

Varicose veins are swollen, dilated, and abnormally shaped veins that affect both the superficial and deep venous systems. They are most commonly found in the legs and feet. They are frequently observed in adults and can be affected by factors such as aging, heredity, pregnancy, constipation, excess weight, and lifestyle choices. Typical symptoms include a sensation of heaviness in the lower limbs, swelling, itching around the enlarged veins, and pain either throughout the leg or in the lower areas. Although the definitive aetiology of varicose veins is ambiguous, it involves aspects like increased pressure in the veins, weakened vein walls, dysfunctional valves, and genetic factors. Due to the similarities in their symptoms, varicose veins and siragata vata can be correlated.