Varicose veins
Varicose veins are swollen and twisted veins that usually occur on the legs. They’re common and are not usually serious.
Symptoms of varicose veins
Varicose veins are widened veins that look swollen and twisted under the skin. They may be lumpy or bulge out.
It’s most common for varicose veins to develop in the legs but you can get them on other parts of the body too.
Other symptoms of varicose veins can include:
- pain, aching or a feeling of heaviness
- swollen feet and ankles
- burning or throbbing in your legs
- muscle cramp in your legs, particularly at night
- dry, itchy and thin skin over the affected vein
These symptoms are usually worse during warm weather or if you’ve been standing up for long periods of time. They may improve if you rest and raise your legs.
- have symptoms like pain, itching or swelling in your legs
- get a sore on your leg that has not healed after 2 weeks
-
Treatment for varicose veins
Most varicose veins don’t need to be treated.
A GP may refer you to a specialist for tests and treatment if you have:
- symptoms like pain, heaviness, swollen legs, itching or skin changes
- any complications, like ulcers on your legs
Treatment to improve how varicose veins look isn’t usually available on the NHS if they don’t cause any other problems. You may be able to pay for it privately.
Specialist treatment for varicose veins
If you’re referred to a specialist they’ll usually do a test called a duplex ultrasound. This is a type of scan to check your blood flow. This helps to confirm if you have varicose veins and helps to plan your treatment.
There are different types of treatment that may be offered, including:
- procedures to block blood flow in the veins – like endothermal ablation and foam sclerotherapy
- surgery to remove varicose veins
- compression stockings