varicose veins after diagnosis

Overview

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that appear just under the skin, usually on the legs. They happen when the one-way valves inside the veins become weak or damaged, causing blood to pool in the vein instead of flowing back to the heart.

Yes, varicose veins are very common. Around 1 in 3 adults will develop them at some point.

They affect all ages but are more common in people over 40. Women are more likely to get them than men, and pregnancy, being overweight, or spending long periods on your feet can increase your risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Aching or heavy feeling in the legs, especially after standing or sitting for long periods
• Burning, throbbing, or muscle cramping in the legs
• Swelling in the lower legs and ankles
• Itchy or irritated skin over the veins
• Skin discoloration or dry, thin skin near the affected area
• The veins themselves look blue or dark purple, bulging or twisted

Symptoms in children

• Varicose veins are uncommon in children. If they appear, it may be linked to a rare underlying condition, so it is important to have them checked by a doctor.

Symptoms in older adults

• Symptoms may be more noticeable with age, such as increased swelling, skin changes, and a higher risk of skin ulcers.
• Older adults may also have other circulation problems, so any new or worsening symptoms should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Causes

Main causes

• Weakness in the vein walls, which makes them less elastic and allows them to stretch
• Damaged or faulty one-way valves inside the veins that let blood flow backward and pool
• Increased pressure in the leg veins, often from standing for long periods, pregnancy, or excess weight

Risk factors

• Family history of varicose veins
• Age – the risk increases as you get older
• Being female
• Pregnancy
• Being overweight or obese
• Standing or sitting for long hours without movement
• Leg injury or previous blood clot

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you experience sudden, painful swelling in one leg with warmth and discoloration – this could be a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis)
• If a varicose vein bleeds and does not stop with pressure
• If you develop chest pain or difficulty breathing after leg swelling

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your symptoms interfere with daily activities, such as persistent aching, heaviness, or swelling
• If the skin over your varicose veins becomes thin, itchy, or changes colour
• If you are concerned about the appearance of the veins and want to discuss treatment options

Diagnosis

Varicose veins are usually diagnosed through a physical examination. Your doctor will look at your legs while you stand and may feel for tender, swollen veins. They may also recommend an ultrasound scan to check blood flow.

Tests that may be done

• A physical examination – the doctor inspects your legs and asks about your symptoms
• A duplex ultrasound – a painless scan that shows how blood flows through your veins and whether the valves are working properly
• In some cases, a venogram (an X-ray with contrast dye) may be used, though this is rare

What to expect at your appointment

The examination is quick and usually done in an outpatient clinic. You may be asked to stand for a few minutes so the veins fill with blood and are easier to see. The ultrasound involves applying gel to your leg and using a small probe – it is painless and safe.

Treatment

Treatment for varicose veins is not always necessary. If you do choose treatment, it usually aims to relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and improve appearance. Options range from simple self-care measures to minimally invasive procedures.

Self-care at home

• Exercise regularly, such as walking or swimming, to improve circulation
• Elevate your legs when resting, ideally above the level of your heart
• Avoid standing or sitting for long periods – take short walks and move your legs
• Wear compression stockings if prescribed – they help veins push blood upward
• Keep a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your veins
• Avoid tight clothing and high heels for long stretches

Medical treatments

Medical treatments are performed by vein specialists and can be done in a clinic or hospital. Common approaches include endovenous laser or radiofrequency therapy (using heat to seal the vein), sclerotherapy (injecting a foam solution to collapse the vein), and occasionally surgery to remove the vein. The choice of treatment depends on the size and location of the veins, your symptoms, and overall health. Your doctor will explain the options and help you decide what is best for you.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery (such as vein stripping or phlebectomy) is usually reserved for larger varicose veins when other treatments have not worked or are not suitable. Most procedures are minimally invasive and involve only a short recovery time.

Living with this condition

Living with varicose veins mostly means keeping your legs moving and taking care of your skin. Simple habits like putting your feet up after a long day and taking short walks regularly can make a big difference.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay physically active – aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days
• Take frequent breaks to stand and stretch if you sit at a desk
• If you work standing, shift your weight and walk around when possible
• Wear compression stockings if recommended by your doctor
• Elevate your legs for 15–20 minutes a few times a day

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet rich in fibre can help prevent constipation, which reduces pressure on your veins. Exercise such as walking, cycling, and swimming strengthens the muscles in your legs, helping to push blood back toward your heart.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Varicose veins can affect how you feel about your legs and may cause embarrassment or worry. It is natural to feel this way. Remember that varicose veins are very common, and many effective treatments are available to improve both symptoms and appearance.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent varicose veins, especially if they run in your family. However, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding long periods of standing or sitting, and elevating your legs when possible can reduce your risk and keep symptoms from getting worse.

Complications

If left untreated

• Skin ulcers (open sores) that may form near the ankle
• Skin colour changes and hardening of the skin, known as lipodermatosclerosis
• Bleeding from a varicose vein after a minor knock
• Superficial thrombophlebitis – a painful inflammation and small blood clot just under the skin
• A slightly higher risk of deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot in a deeper leg vein), though this is uncommon

Long-term outlook

For the vast majority of people, varicose veins remain a cosmetic issue or cause mild discomfort. With the right self-care and, if needed, modern treatments, symptoms usually improve and complications can be prevented. It is always a good idea to have any new or worsening symptoms checked by a healthcare professional.

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