Venous disease covers any problem that keeps veins from sending blood back to the heart. Think traffic jams in the return lane—stretching veins, slow flow, and sudden roadblocks.

Heavy, achy legs lead the pack. They feel like wet sandbags by evening or after long standing.

Visible varicose veins pop next. Blue, ropey cords bulge when you stand and shrink when you lie down.

Ankle swelling shows up daily. Socks leave deep grooves that take minutes to fade.

Itching or burning crops up over veins. Scratching doesn’t help and can leave dark brown patches.

Night cramps or restless legs strike in bed. A sudden calf cramp or the urge to move your legs can wake you up.

Late alarms include leg pain at rest, open sores near the ankle, or hot, red skin—signs of clot or severe vein damage.