Varicose veins are common and many people recognise them when they see them, however few people know anything about the cause or treatment of this condition, doctors have said.

Varicose veins are enlarged veins that are found in the legs. They occur when the valves in the veins that carry blood from the legs towards the heart are no longer able to function - this causes blood to pool in the legs.

They often appear as rope-like cords that bulge out of the legs and around 40% of women and 25% of men are affected.

While some people experience little or no problems with them, others can experience pain, swelling, tiredness or a burning sensation. This often feels worse at the end of the day.

For some people, varicose veins are linked to serious health problems, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or wounds that will not heal.

People with a family history of varicose veins are much more likely to develop the condition. It is also thought that a diet high in fat and sugar and low in fibre may increase the risk.

"Varicose veins are very common but they can have serious health implications and effects on the sufferer's quality of life. In general we tend to see more women addressing the issue, but we would encourage men to get seen to also," commented Mr Peter Naughton, a consultant vascular surgeon at the Bon Secours Hospital Dublin.

He pointed out that new treatments ‘are less invasive and recovery times are significantly reduced, allowing patients to resume normal activity and work soon after surgery'.

The Bon Secours Hospital is holding a free and interactive educational seminar on varicose veins next month. Members of the public will be given information on how to avoid the condition, and on new non-invasive treatments that are available to treat it.

Those attending can also speak directly with a consultant vascular surgeon.

The event takes place at 7pm on Thursday, October 2, at the new DCU Innovation Campus on the Old Finglas Road, Dublin 9. It is free of charge however people are advised to make reservations by emailing alysaght@bonsecours.ie or calling 087 250 3540.