Varicose Veins: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention & Treatment

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that often appear blue or purple in colour. They typically develop in the legs and feet and can be a result of weak or damaged valves within the veins. Normally, these valves help regulate blood flow by ensuring it flows in one direction. However, when the valves weaken or become damaged, blood can flow backward and pool within the veins, leading to their bulging and twisted appearance.

For a lot of people, varicose veins and thread veins are primarily a cosmetic issue. However, varicose veins can be associated with more significant symptoms and may require medical attention in more serious cases.

Varicose veins can lead to a wide range of symptoms. Some of these are minor and patients often live with them for years without seeking help or being aware of the options available to them, however, it is important to seek professional advice to understand the root of the underlying problem and avoid potential complications in the future.

The most common complaints associated with varicose veins are:

Swelling in the affected area

Varicose veins can cause swelling, particularly in the lower legs and ankles. The swelling may worsen in warm weather or after prolonged periods of standing or sitting.

Pain, aching or discomfort

Many individuals with varicose veins experience aching, discomfort or itching in the affected area. This can range from mild to severe, and the pain may be throbbing or aching in nature. Varicose vein pain relief techniques include low-impact exercise, compression stockings to improve circulation, leg elevation, as well as over-the-counter medications.

Heaviness in the legs

A common complaint among those with varicose veins is a feeling of heaviness or fullness in the legs. This sensation can be particularly pronounced after extended periods of activity or at the end of the day. 

Itching or burning

Varicose veins may cause itching or burning sensations on the skin’s surface near the affected veins. This can be a result of the accumulation of metabolic waste products, such as carbon dioxide or nitrogen, in the surrounding tissues.

Restlessness or cramping in the legs

Restlessness or leg cramps, especially at night, can be associated with varicose veins. These symptoms are often relieved temporarily by moving or elevating the legs above the heart.

Skin changes

In more advanced cases, varicose veins can lead to changes in the skin’s appearance. This can include discolouration, dryness, and the development of venous eczema or stasis dermatitis. In some instances, the skin may become fragile and prone to ulcers.

Varicose veins occur when valves within the veins fail or become damaged, impairing circulation and causing blood to pool. Venous insufficiency resulting from valve failure can be caused by a combination of factors, including:

Genetics and family history

The most common contributing factor to the development of varicose veins is a genetic predisposition. If you have a family history of varicose veins, you are more likely to develop them yourself. Certain genetic factors can make the vein walls and valves weaker, increasing the risk of varicose vein formation. 

Prolonged standing or sitting

Occupations or activities that involve prolonged periods of standing or sitting can increase the risk of varicose veins. Remaining in one position for extended periods can impede proper blood circulation, putting extra pressure on the veins in your legs and feet.

Pregnancy

Varicose veins can occur during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume can place added stress on the veins. Additionally, the growing uterus can exert pressure on the veins in the pelvic region, hindering blood flow and contributing to the development of varicose veins.

Obesity or being overweight

Excess weight can strain the veins and increase the risk of varicose vein formation. The additional pressure from excess body weight makes it more difficult for veins to efficiently return blood to the heart and can cause varicose veins to form.

Age

As we age our veins naturally lose elasticity and become weaker. This can lead to the development of varicose veins over time, although venous insufficiency can affect people of any age.

Chronic venous insufficiency is a progressive disease, and if left unattended, varicose veins can potentially lead to more serious complications, such as bleeding, blood clots, or venous ulcers. Seeking prompt medical attention is crucial if you experience any severe symptoms or complications related to varicose veins, such as:

Bleeding

Varicose veins close to the skin’s surface can be prone to injuries, which may result in bleeding, even after a relatively minor trauma.

Blood clots

In some cases, varicose veins can increase the risk of blood clots forming within the affected veins, a condition known as superficial thrombophlebitis. Superficial blood clots require medical attention and can lead to more severe issues such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Venous ulcers

In advanced cases, varicose veins can lead to the development of venous ulcers. These ulcers typically form on the lower leg and can be challenging to heal without proper treatment, with an increased risk of infection and other complications arising if ulcers persist.

Unfortunately there is no way to prevent the valve problems or venous insufficiency which are the underlying cause of varicose veins. However, whilst not all risk factors for varicose veins can be avoided, there are preventative measures you can take to reduce your risk and minimise the progression of existing varicose veins.

• Regular exercise to improve circulation and strengthen leg muscles.
• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the veins.
• Avoiding prolonged periods of standing or sitting.
• Elevating your legs whenever possible to promote blood flow.
• Wearing compression stockings, particularly if you have a family history of varicose veins or are at a higher risk due to other factors.

Implementing these preventive measures can help reduce the likelihood of developing varicose veins or alleviate existing symptoms, however it is not possible to reverse the development of varicose veins or solve the underlying issue without some form of treatment.

If you suspect you have varicose veins or are experiencing related symptoms it is advisable to consult with a vein specialist.

At AVA Clinics, diagnosis and treatment is performed exclusively by consultant vascular surgeons, building on the same gold standard techniques they perform every week in the NHS. Unlike some national clinics, we do not compromise outcomes by utilising GPs or nursing staff to perform diagnostic or surgical treatments.

Take our simple diagnostic test to establish whether a consultation with one of our experts would be beneficial. Following this we can provide an initial free consultation to assess the severity of your condition. Your consultation will involve a medical history review with a focus on the venous symptoms, a physical examination and a duplex ultrasound scan to assess the structure and function of your veins. Following this, advice can be provided on the best course of treatment for you.

Varicose veins can be a source of discomfort and embarrassment, but there are effective treatment options available, with removal of the affected veins often the most effective option for addressing the underlying issue and providing long-term relief.

AVA Clinics offers best-in-class varicose vein treatments to ensure the most effective patient outcomes, with all diagnostic tests and treatments performed by qualified vascular surgeons.

What is varicose vein removal?

Varicose vein removal is a procedure that targets the underlying cause of the issue, usually being the presence of weakened or damaged valves that allow blood to flow backwards and pool in the veins. By closing off the affected vein, blood flow is redirected to healthier veins, improving circulation and reducing symptoms.

Varicose vein removal treatments treat the underlying issue and provide a long-term solution, alleviating discomfort, improving the appearance of the affected veins and enhancing a patient’s overall quality of life.

Benefits of varicose vein removal

Varicose vein removal treatments provide numerous benefits for patients, helping them overcome the challenges associated with varicose veins and improving overall health and wellness. Some of the key benefits are as follows:

• Alleviated symptoms: Removal treatments effectively alleviate symptoms such as pain, discomfort, swelling and leg heaviness.
• Improved appearance: By closing off the affected veins their appearance is significantly improved, leading to smoother and healthier looking legs.
• Enhanced circulation: Removal treatments improve blood circulation by redirecting the flow to healthier veins, reducing the risk of complications and promoting overall leg health.
• Reduced risk of future complications: Untreated varicose veins can give rise to complications in the future, with these complications greatly reduced if the affected veins have been removed.
• Enhanced quality of life: By eliminating symptoms, improving appearance and reducing the risk of complications, removal treatments enhance the overall quality of life, self-confidence and mental wellbeing of patients.