What exactly are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins visible beneath the skin, most commonly in the legs. They develop when the one-way valves inside the veins stop working properly, causing blood to flow backwards and pool, which stretches the vein walls over time. They can cause aching, heaviness, swelling, and skin changes.

For most people, varicose veins cause discomfort rather than serious danger. However, longstanding untreated varicose veins can lead to chronic venous insufficiency, skin changes, and venous ulceration. They can also occasionally cause superficial thrombophlebitis (inflammation and clotting in the vein) or, rarely, significant bleeding.

Varicose veins are caused by failure of the venous valves, which normally prevent backflow of blood. Risk factors include family history, prolonged standing, pregnancy, obesity, and age. They are more common in women than men, and the risk increases with each pregnancy.

Modern treatment options include radiofrequency ablation, endovenous laser ablation, VenaSeal, foam sclerotherapy, and ambulatory phlebectomy. These minimally invasive procedures are performed as day cases under local anaesthetic. Traditional surgical stripping is now rarely required. The best option depends on the anatomy and extent of the veins.

Not always. Small, asymptomatic varicose veins may not require treatment. However, veins causing significant symptoms, skin changes, or complications benefit from intervention. A duplex ultrasound assessment helps determine the underlying cause and guides the most appropriate treatment recommendation.