What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins near the surface of the skin. They most commonly develop in the legs and ankles.

See a picture of varicose veins.

What causes varicose veins?

Varicose veins develop when you have faulty valves in your veins and weakened vein walls. Normally, the one-way valves in these veins keep the blood flowing efficiently against gravity up toward the heart. When these valves do not function properly, blood pools, pressure builds up, and the veins become weakened, enlarged, and twisted. This is called venous insufficiency.

Some people may be more likely than others to develop varicose veins because of inherited characteristics (genetics) and the aging process. Varicose veins may also result from conditions that increase pressure on the leg veins, such as being overweight or pregnant or having an occupation that requires standing for long periods of time.

What are the symptoms?

People with varicose veins often do not have symptoms but may be concerned about the appearance of the veins. Varicose veins are visible through the skin and appear dark blue, swollen, and twisted. If you have varicose veins, your legs may feel heavy, tired, achy, and painful. Symptoms may be worse after standing or sitting for long periods of time. Varicose veins can also cause skin color changes (stasis pigmentation), dry, thinned skin, skin inflammation, open sores (ulcerations), or bleeding after a minor injury.

Superficial thrombophlebitis (when a blood clot and inflammation develop in a small vein near the surface of the skin) can develop in varicose veins.

Varicose veins are common and are usually not a sign of a serious medical problem. But in some cases varicose veins can signal a blockage in the deeper veins. This condition, called deep vein thrombosis, requires evaluation and possibly treatment.

How are varicose veins diagnosed?

To diagnose varicose veins, your doctor will examine your legs and feet. Varicose veins are easy to see, especially when you are standing. The doctor will also check your legs for tender areas, swelling, skin color changes, ulcers, and other signs of skin breakdown.

Additional testing may also be needed if you are considering varicose vein surgery or other vein treatments.

How are they treated?

Self-care measures such as wearing compression stockings, elevating your legs, and exercising regularly may relieve symptoms and keep varicose veins from getting worse.

Sclerotherapy, endovenous laser or radiofrequency treatment (which uses heat to close off varicose veins), or surgery to treat varicose veins may be considered when symptoms persist. These procedures may also be used if you are concerned about the appearance of varicose veins.

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