Understanding Varicose Veins: Symptoms, Risks & Modern Treatments

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that most commonly appear on the legs and feet. While many people see them as a cosmetic concern, varicose veins can also be a sign of underlying venous disease that may cause pain, swelling, and long-term complications. They occur when the valves inside the veins become weak or damaged, causing blood to pool instead of flowing smoothly back to the heart. It is a very common condition and can affect 5–6 out of 10 individuals.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are superficial veins that become enlarged, bulging, and visible beneath the skin, often appearing bluish or purple and rope-like. They usually develop in the legs due to prolonged standing, gravity, and weak vein valves. Over time, untreated varicose veins can cause discomfort, skin changes, and even ulcers.

Common Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Although varicose veins are often visible, some patients may notice symptoms even before the veins become very prominent. You may experience:

• Aching, heaviness, or throbbing in the legs
• Swelling in the lower legs or around the ankles
• Itching, burning, or tingling near the affected veins
• Muscle cramps or restlessness in the legs, especially at night
• Skin darkening, dryness, or eczema around the ankles in advanced cases
• In severe cases, painful skin changes or leg ulcers

Who Is at Risk of Varicose Veins?

Several factors can increase your risk of developing varicose veins:

• Age: Vein valves weaken naturally over time.
• Family history: A strong hereditary tendency.
• Gender: More common in women due to hormonal influences.
• Prolonged standing or sitting: Jobs that require long hours on your feet or sitting in one position.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts extra pressure on the leg veins.
• Pregnancy: Increased blood volume and hormonal changes can weaken veins.

Do Varicose Veins Require Treatment?

Not all varicose veins require medical intervention. However, if they cause pain, swelling, skin changes, or recurrent bleeding, or if there is a risk of complications, treatment becomes essential. If left untreated, varicose veins can progress and lead to:

• Superficial blood clots (thrombophlebitis)
• Chronic leg swelling and heaviness
• Skin darkening and hardening around the ankle
• Non-healing venous leg ulcers
• Chronic venous insufficiency

Treatment Options for Varicose Veins

Thanks to advances in vascular care, varicose vein treatments are now minimally invasive, highly effective, and usually performed as day-care procedures:

• Lifestyle Changes: Weight management, leg elevation, regular walking, and avoiding prolonged standing/sitting help reduce symptoms.
• Compression Stockings: Medical-grade stockings improve venous return and relieve heaviness and swelling.
• Sclerotherapy: Injection of a special solution into small or medium veins to close them safely.
• Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) / Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Minimally invasive procedures that seal the faulty vein from within using heat energy.
• Glue (VenaSeal) Ablation: A modern technique that uses a medical adhesive to close the diseased vein without the need for heat or multiple injections.
• Vein Stripping / Phlebectomy: Surgical removal of large or tortuous veins, usually reserved for selected advanced cases.

Your treatment plan is personalised based on your symptoms, vein scan findings, occupation, and cosmetic expectations to ensure safe and long-lasting results.

Why Treating Varicose Veins Early Matters

Early evaluation and treatment of varicose veins can prevent complications, improve leg comfort, and enhance your confidence in daily life. Modern techniques allow quick recovery with minimal downtime, enabling you to return to work and routine activities soon after treatment.

If you notice bulging veins, leg heaviness, or skin changes around your ankles, it is important to consult a vascular specialist. We offer detailed vein assessment, duplex ultrasound evaluation, and advanced, personalised treatment options to restore healthy circulation and improve your leg comfort.