varicose veins in children

Overview

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that usually appear blue or dark purple. They happen when the tiny valves inside veins stop working properly, making it hard for blood to flow back to the heart. True varicose veins are very rare in children. In most cases, visible veins on a child's legs are simply normal veins that are close to the skin, or they are due to a birth difference in how the veins formed.

No. Varicose veins are very uncommon in children. When they do occur, they are often linked to a condition that the child was born with.

They can appear at any age during childhood, but they are more likely in children with a family history of vein problems, or in children with certain rare conditions that affect blood vessels. They may also become more noticeable during the teenage years.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Bulging, twisted veins that look blue or purple
• Aching or heavy feeling in the legs
• Mild swelling of the ankles or feet
• Itching or burning around the vein

Symptoms in children

• Often there are no symptoms — the vein is only noticed when a doctor checks the skin.
• A child may complain of tired, heavy legs after a long day of standing or playing.
• The vein may feel warm to the touch, but not hot.
• Some children may be self-conscious about how their legs look.

Symptoms in older adults

• Symptoms tend to be more noticeable, with more swelling and heaviness.
• Skin around the vein may become dry, itchy, or discolored.
• Without care, some older adults may develop skin ulcers (open sores) near the ankle.

Causes

Main causes

• Weak vein walls or faulty valves inside the veins
• Increased pressure in the veins, often from long periods of standing
• A birth difference in the veins, called a venous malformation

Risk factors

• Family history of varicose veins
• Being overweight
• Limited physical activity
• Hormone changes during puberty
• Rare conditions present from birth that affect blood vessels

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Call your local emergency services if a vein bleeds and won't stop with pressure.
• Get same-day care if a vein becomes hard, painful, or the skin around it is red and warm.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Make an appointment if you notice bulging veins on your child, especially if they cause discomfort.
• Ask for a check-up if your child complains of leg pain, heaviness, or swelling.
• If the vein changes in size or new symptoms appear, see a healthcare provider.

Diagnosis

A doctor will examine your child's legs and ask about symptoms, family history, and how the veins have changed over time. In most cases, this is enough to tell whether the veins are a normal variation or something that needs more investigation.

Tests that may be done

• A Doppler ultrasound — a painless scan that uses sound waves to look at blood flow through the veins
• Sometimes a more detailed imaging test, if the doctor suspects a birth difference in the blood vessels

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will likely ask your child to stand so the veins are easier to see. The ultrasound is quick and does not hurt. After the examination, the doctor will explain what they found and whether any follow-up is needed.

Treatment

Varicose veins in children usually do not need medical treatment. If they cause symptoms, treatment focuses on relieving discomfort and preventing complications. Any treatment should be discussed with your child's healthcare provider, who will consider the child's age, symptoms, and overall health.

Self-care at home

• Encourage regular physical activity and avoid long periods of standing still
• Have your child rest with their legs raised above heart level when possible
• Use supportive stockings if your doctor recommends them — always ask about the right fit and use
• Apply a cool, damp cloth over the area if it feels achy or itchy

Medical treatments

For children with persistent or severe symptoms, a specialist may consider treatments such as sclerotherapy (injecting a solution to close the vein) or laser therapy. These are used in limited cases and only after a full assessment. In rare situations, a surgeon may remove the affected vein. There are no medicines that fix varicose veins directly.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for children. It may be considered if the vein bleeds, causes significant pain, or is linked to a birth difference that affects how the limb works. Your child's specialist team will discuss all options with you before recommending any procedure.

Living with this condition

Most children with varicose veins live a completely normal life. The main goal is to keep the child active and avoid long periods of standing. If your child feels self-conscious about their legs, talk openly with them and reassure them that it's nothing to be ashamed of.

Lifestyle tips

• Encourage daily play and physical activity
• Limit time sitting or standing without moving
• Help your child reach or stay at a healthy weight
• Make it fun to take short walking breaks during long car rides or homework sessions

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with plenty of fiber and water helps prevent constipation, which can add pressure on the veins. Regular exercise — like swimming, cycling, or playing sports — keeps blood moving and strengthens the muscles that support the veins.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Children may feel different or embarrassed if they have visible veins on their legs. This can affect their confidence. Reassure them that many people have unusual veins and that they are not alone. If you notice ongoing worry, sadness, or withdrawal, talk to your doctor or a school counselor.

Prevention

In children, true varicose veins are usually not caused by something that can be changed, so they cannot be fully prevented. However, staying active, avoiding long periods of standing, and maintaining a healthy weight may help stop veins from becoming worse.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for varicose veins.

Screening programmes

No routine screening is needed for children. A doctor will examine the veins if you have concerns.

Complications

If left untreated

• The vein may become painful or heavy over time
• Skin around the vein may become dry, itchy, or discolored
• Rarely, a blood clot may form in the vein
• If the vein is part of a birth difference, there may be a higher risk of bleeding or skin changes

Long-term outlook

The outlook for children with varicose veins is very good. Most have no serious problems and live active, healthy lives. With simple self-care and, when needed, support from a specialist, symptoms can be managed well.

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