Varicose veins
Specialty of Vascular surgery
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged and swollen veins, usually forming in the legs and feet. Often they can appear as lumpy, blue or purple and bulging. Although varicose veins are frequently a cosmetic concern, for some people they can also cause pain and discomfort, and can sometimes lead to more serious problems.
There are different types of varicose veins, including:
- Reticular – red and grouped closely together.
- Trunk – close to the skin’s surface and very thick.
- Telangiectasia – also known as spider veins, they appear as small groups of blue or red veins that do not bulge.
What are the symptoms of varicose veins?
The main symptoms of varicose veins include:
- heavy, aching legs
- burning or throbbing in the legs
- dry, itchy skin on the affected veins
- cramps in the legs, especially at night
- swollen ankles and feet
What causes varicose veins?
Varicose veins occur when the valves inside the veins malfunction. Blood should flow smoothly to the heart, but if a valve is weakened or damaged, blood can flow backwards and collect in the veins. This eventually results in swollen, varicose veins.
There are certain risk factors associated with developing varicose veins, including:
- older age
- pregnancy
- being female
- being overweight
- having family members with varicose veins
- standing for long periods over time
How can varicose veins be prevented?
There is little evidence that indicates varicose veins can be prevented, however, techniques that improve circulation are thought to reduce the risk of developing them.
There are also measures that can help relieve the symptoms caused by varicose veins:
- Exercising regularly, to maintain a healthy weight and to improve circulation.
- Avoid standing for long periods, and to move around frequently.
- If there is pain, raise the legs on pillows throughout the day to relieve the discomfort.
What is the treatment for varicose veins?
Initially, treatment for varicose veins is usually the use of compression socks or stockings, exercising regularly and elevating the legs when in discomfort.
However, if they are still causing pain and discomfort or have caused complications, then there are other treatment options, including:
- Sclerotherapy – special foam is used to close the affected veins.
- Endothermal ablation – heat is used to seal the veins.
- Ligation and stripping – the affected veins are removed.
Videos related to Varicose veins
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Articles related to Varicose veins
Varicose veins – who gets them, and when do they need treatment?
By Mr Gary Maytham
2018-12-14
An estimated 3% of the population is affected by varicose veins. But treatment has advanced enormously over the last 20 years, so we spoke to top vascular surgeon Mr Gary Maytham to find out what treatment looks like today. See more
Varicose veins: is treatment with sedation the best option for you?
By Mr David Greenstein
2018-12-14
Leading vascular and venous surgeon, Mr David Greenstein explains all about varicose veins, including the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, and whether you should consider sedation when having treatment. See more
Varicose veins and thread veins: what's the difference and how are they treated?
By Mr Ian Franklin
2018-12-14
Varicose veins and thread veins are a common problem among UK adults - particularly among women, who more commonly experience the two. However, what's the difference? What are the symptoms, and is treatment always necessary? See more
How are varicose veins removed?
By Mr Philip Coleridge Smith
2018-12-14
Expert vascular surgeon, Mr Coleridge Smith, explains how varicose veins are formed, and the ways that they can be removed. See more
Experts in Varicose veins
-
Mr Philip Coleridge Smith
Vascular surgeryExpert in:
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Spider veins
- Thrombosis
- Varicose veins
- Venous insufficiency
- Venous ulcer
-
Mr David Greenstein
Vascular surgeryExpert in:
- Varicose veins
- Spider veins
- Pelvic congestion syndrome
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Hand veins
- Swollen legs
-
Mr Myrddin Rees
SurgeryExpert in:
- Gallstones
- Liver surgery
- Liver cancer
- Varicose veins
- Hernia
- Lipoma
Mr Philip Coleridge Smith
The British Vein Institute, 24-28 The Broadway, Amersham
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Mr David Greenstein
60 Grove End Road, St John's Wood, London, Central London
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Mr Myrddin Rees
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