Varicose Veins
Last Updated: July 3, 2026
Key Points
- Swollen, twisted veins, usually on legs
- Caused by faulty valves in leg veins
- Common and generally not serious
- Treatments available for discomfort or complications
Overview
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that appear just under the skin, most often on the legs. They can look lumpy and bulge outwards. While common and usually not serious, they can sometimes cause discomfort or other problems. These veins develop when small valves inside them stop working correctly. Normally, these valves help blood flow towards the heart. When they fail, blood can pool in the veins, causing them to swell and twist. Management often begins with lifestyle adjustments to ease symptoms. If symptoms are bothersome or complications arise, various medical treatments, from compression therapy to minimally invasive procedures or surgery, can help.
Signs and Symptoms
- Swollen, twisted veins under the skin
- Lumpy or bulging appearance
- Pain, aching, or heaviness in legs
- Itching, skin color changes, or dry, scaly skin
- Swollen ankles or legs
- Worse symptoms after long standing
- Improvement with legs elevated
Things That Increase the Risk
- Being female
- Older age
- Being overweight
- Pregnancy
- Standing or sitting for long periods
- Family history of varicose veins
- Past deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Diagnosis
- Physical examination of legs
- Discussion of symptoms
- Duplex ultrasound scan to check blood flow
- Specialist assessment
Treatment & Management
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Elevate legs when resting
- Regular exercise (e.g., walking)
- Moisturizing dry or itchy skin
- Compression stockings
- Endothermal ablation (radiofrequency or laser)
- Foam sclerotherapy
- Surgical removal (ligation and stripping)
Prevention
- Keep to a healthy weight
- Elevate legs when possible
- Exercise regularly to improve blood flow
- Avoid standing or sitting for long periods
- Quit smoking
- Protect legs from injury
Available Treatments
Explore our range of treatment options for Varicose Veins:
Surgical Options
Learn about surgical procedures available for Varicose Veins:
Contents
Quick Info
Affects
Leg veins
Prevalence
Very common
Diagnosis
Duplex ultrasound
Treatment
Lifestyle, compression, procedures, surgery
Medically Reviewed
Dr. Vijay Bhat
Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
Reviewed on July 3, 2026
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