varicose veins on one side

Overview

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that often look blue or dark purple. They happen when the small valves inside your veins stop working properly, causing blood to pool instead of flowing back to your heart. When they occur on only one leg or side, it is called varicose veins on one side.

Yes, varicose veins are common. Many people have them, especially women and older adults. Having them on only one side is also common.

Varicose veins can affect anyone, but they are more common in women, people over 40, those who are pregnant, and people who stand or sit for long periods. Family history and being overweight also increase the risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Aching, heavy, or tired feeling in the leg, especially after standing or sitting for long periods.
• Swelling in the ankle or foot, usually worse at the end of the day.
• Itching or burning over the vein.
• Restless legs or muscle cramps at night.
• Visible swollen, twisted veins that may feel like cords under the skin.

Symptoms in children

• Varicose veins are rare in children. If they appear, they may be related to a birth defect or an injury. A child with visible varicose veins should be seen by a doctor.

Symptoms in older adults

• Symptoms may be more noticeable because skin becomes thinner and veins are more visible.
• Older adults may have more achiness and swelling, and are at higher risk for skin changes or ulcers near the ankle.
• Compression stockings (support stockings) may be harder to put on, but they can still be helpful.

Causes

Main causes

• Weak or damaged valves in the veins. Normally, these valves keep blood flowing upward toward the heart. When they stop working, blood pools and the vein stretches and becomes varicose.
• Varicose veins on one side can happen because of a problem with a specific vein, such as a past injury or blockage.

Risk factors

• Getting older (valves naturally weaken with age).
• Being female (pregnancy and hormonal changes can affect veins).
• Family history of varicose veins.
• Being overweight or obese (extra weight puts pressure on leg veins).
• Standing or sitting for long hours at work.
• Pregnancy (increased blood volume and pressure on leg veins).

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden, severe leg pain or swelling, or any signs of a blood clot (warmth, redness, hard vein).
• If a varicose vein starts bleeding and you cannot stop it with direct pressure.
• If you develop an open sore or ulcer on your leg, especially near the ankle.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your varicose veins cause persistent aching or heaviness that affects your daily activities.
• If you are concerned about the appearance of your veins or they are getting worse.
• If you have mild swelling in your ankles at the end of the day.
• If you have itchy skin or a rash on your leg near the varicose veins.

Diagnosis

A doctor can often diagnose varicose veins just by looking at your legs while you stand. They will also ask about your symptoms and medical history.

Tests that may be done

• Ultrasound: This painless test uses sound waves to create a picture of the blood flow in your veins. It helps find out if the valves are working and if there are any blood clots.

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor or a specialist (called a vascular specialist) will examine your legs, feel for any tender areas, and may recommend an ultrasound. The appointment usually takes about 30 minutes. You will likely be asked to stand for part of the exam. The results will help decide if you need treatment.

Treatment

Treatment for varicose veins depends on how bothersome your symptoms are. Many people improve with simple self-care. If needed, medical treatments can remove or close the affected veins. These are usually safe and effective, with a quick recovery.

Self-care at home

• Exercise regularly, such as walking, to improve leg circulation.
• Elevate your legs above heart level for 15–30 minutes a few times a day.
• Wear compression stockings (support stockings) during the day to help blood flow. Your doctor can tell you what strength to use.
• Avoid standing or sitting for long periods. Take breaks to move around.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your veins.

Medical treatments

Medical treatments for varicose veins include minimally invasive procedures like sclerotherapy (injecting a solution to close the vein), endovenous laser or radiofrequency ablation (using heat to seal the vein), and phlebectomy (removing the vein through small cuts). These are done by a specialist and usually allow you to go home the same day. The type of treatment depends on the size and location of the vein.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery to remove the varicose vein (known as vein stripping) is less common now because newer treatments are less invasive. It may still be used for very large or severely damaged veins. Your doctor will discuss the options if surgery is recommended.

Living with this condition

Living with varicose veins often means making small changes. Wear compression stockings if they are prescribed, take regular walks, and put your feet up when you can. Avoid tight clothes that restrict blood flow. Most people with varicose veins can lead a full and active life with little disruption.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay active. Walking, swimming, and cycling are gentle on the legs and improve circulation.
• Avoid crossing your legs when sitting, as this can restrict blood flow.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting shoes and avoid high heels, which can make leg muscles work less efficiently.
• If your job involves long periods of standing or sitting, try to flex your ankles or take short walks every 30 minutes.

Diet and exercise

A diet high in fiber (from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) can help prevent constipation, which adds pressure on leg veins. Drinking plenty of water is also important. Regular exercise like walking for 30 minutes a day can improve symptoms and reduce the risk of new veins forming.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Varicose veins can sometimes make people feel embarrassed or self-conscious about the appearance of their legs. This can lead to anxiety or low mood. If you are feeling worried or upset, talk to your doctor or a friend. Remember that you are not alone, and treatment is available. If you feel overwhelmed, reach out to a mental health professional or a crisis support line.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent varicose veins, especially if they run in your family. However, you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, avoiding long periods of standing or sitting, and raising your legs when you rest.

Complications

If left untreated

• Skin changes, such as dryness, itching, or a brownish discoloration near the ankle.
• Open sores (ulcers) that heal slowly, most often near the ankle.
• Bleeding from a varicose vein if it is scratched or injured.
• Superficial thrombophlebitis (inflammation and a small blood clot in a vein just under the skin).
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – a blood clot in a deeper vein, which can be serious.

Long-term outlook

Most people with varicose veins do not develop complications. If complications do occur, they are usually treatable. With good self-care and, if needed, medical treatment, symptoms can be controlled, and appearance can be improved. The outlook is generally very good.

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