Varicose Veins

Key Points

Overview

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that appear just under the skin, most often on the legs. They can look lumpy and bulge outwards. While common and usually not serious, they can sometimes cause discomfort or other problems. These veins develop when small valves inside them stop working correctly. Normally, these valves help blood flow towards the heart. When they fail, blood can pool in the veins, causing them to swell and twist. Management often begins with lifestyle adjustments to ease symptoms. If symptoms are bothersome or complications arise, various medical treatments, from compression therapy to minimally invasive procedures or surgery, can help.

Signs and Symptoms

• Swollen, twisted veins under the skin
• Lumpy or bulging appearance
• Pain, aching, or heaviness in legs
• Itching, skin color changes, or dry, scaly skin
• Swollen ankles or legs
• Worse symptoms after long standing
• Improvement with legs elevated

Things That Increase the Risk

• Being female
• Older age
• Being overweight
• Pregnancy
• Standing or sitting for long periods
• Family history of varicose veins
• Past deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Diagnosis

• Physical examination of legs
• Discussion of symptoms
• Duplex ultrasound scan to check blood flow
• Specialist assessment

Treatment & Management

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Elevate legs when resting
• Regular exercise (e.g., walking)
• Moisturizing dry or itchy skin
• Compression stockings
• Endothermal ablation (radiofrequency or laser)
• Foam sclerotherapy
• Surgical removal (ligation and stripping)

Prevention

• Keep to a healthy weight
• Elevate legs when possible
• Exercise regularly to improve blood flow
• Avoid standing or sitting for long periods
• Quit smoking
• Protect legs from injury

Related Diseases

• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
• Venous Leg Ulcers
• Varicose Eczema
• Spider Veins

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Varicose Veins:

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Varicose Veins: