Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins, usually in the legs, caused by valves in the veins that no longer work properly, so blood pools instead of flowing back to the heart. They are common in women, after pregnancy, in people who stand for long hours at work, and in families. For many people they are only a cosmetic concern. In others they ache, swell, and over years damage the skin of the lower leg, which can lead to ulcers that are slow to heal.
Find a General Surgery SpecialistMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Bulging, twisted, blue or purple veins in the legs
- Aching, heaviness or throbbing in the legs, worse at the end of the day
- Swelling of the ankles
- Itching over the veins
- Night cramps
- Darkening, hardening or eczema of the skin around the ankle
- An open sore near the ankle that does not heal (venous ulcer)
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if varicose veins ache, swell, itch, or are changing the skin of your lower leg, or if you have a sore that is not healing. Go to hospital the same day if a varicose vein bleeds heavily (lie down, raise the leg and press firmly on it), or if one leg becomes suddenly swollen, painful, warm and red, which can be a deep vein thrombosis. Sudden breathlessness or chest pain with a swollen leg is an emergency.
Treatment options
- Duplex ultrasound scan to map which veins are leaking
- Compression stockings, raising the legs and regular walking
- Weight loss and avoiding long periods of standing still
- Endovenous laser or radiofrequency ablation, where available
- Foam sclerotherapy
- Surgical ligation and stripping of the leaking veins
- Specialist dressings and compression for venous ulcers
Common Questions
Are varicose veins dangerous?
Usually not, but they can cause skin damage, ulcers, bleeding and, less often, inflamed or clotted surface veins. They are worth assessing if they cause symptoms or skin changes.
Will varicose veins come back after treatment?
Treated veins do not usually return, but new varicose veins can develop over the years, because the underlying tendency remains. Compression and staying active help.
Do I need treatment if they are only unsightly?
Not for medical reasons. Treating veins for appearance alone is a personal choice, and the options and risks should be discussed with a specialist.
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