Varicose veins are not simply a cosmetic issue, but a widespread medical condition — affecting millions of men and women across the UK. Identified by their swollen, ropey look, varicose veins typically occur in the legs and feet, where the pressure of standing or walking raises the risk. They happen when the little one-way valves that prevent blood from falling backwards inside your veins stop functioning properly, letting the blood slip backwards and pool, and those knotted, rope-like veins appear just under the skin.
Although generally viewed as an age-related issue, varicose veins can also occur in people younger than 40, especially in women who are pregnant, with a family history of the condition and with specific lifestyle or occupational risk factors.
We at Chase Lodge Hospital know your comfort, mobility and self-confidence may be affected by your varicose veins. In this blog, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, treatments and prevention tips that help you proactively, confidently and compassionately manage your vascular health.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen veins that are often blue or purple and usually visible just under the skin’s surface. They occur most often in the legs and feet, but can form elsewhere in the body, such as around the rectum (haemorrhoids). These veins may twist or bulge, creating a cosmetic issue as well as causing physical pain.
Typically, veins transport blood back to the heart using a series of one-way valves that stop it from flowing backward. When these valves weaken or become damaged, blood can pool in the vein, leading to stretching and swelling of the vein — causing varicose veins.
Ageing, female sex, obesity, pregnancy, occupation with prolonged standing or sitting are the risk factors. Genetics also play a big part; if your parents had varicose veins, you’re much more likely to develop varicose veins yourself.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are mainly caused by faulty or weakened valves present in the veins along with the damaged vein walls. Altogether these cause blood to flow backward and pool, which makes the vein swell and creates its characteristic varicosed look.
There are a number of factors that make you more likely to have varicose veins:
- Genetics: Having a family history is one of the best predictors.
- Hormonal changes: Both pregnancy and menopause trigger hormonal shifts that cause vein walls and valves to become more lax.
- Pregnancy: The body creates more blood for the foetus, applying more pressure to the leg veins. Vein walls also slacken under the influence of hormones, adding to the risk.
- Obesity and inactivity: Extra body weight puts extra pressure on veins, and lack of movement can slow circulation.
- Prolonged standing or sitting: Typical for jobs such as teaching, nursing or retail, all of which can promote poor circulation in the lower limbs.
- Ageing: As we get older, vein walls and valves naturally become weaker, especially after the age of 50.
It is essential for prevention and early intervention to understand these risk factors.
Common Symptoms of Varicose Veins
The symptoms of varicose veins can vary from visible symptoms to physical pain:
- Bulging, twisted blue or purple veins that appear above the skin
- A sensation of heaviness or soreness in the legs
- Swelling in the legs and feet
- Pain, itching, burning or tingling around affected veins
- Nocturnal muscle cramps or restless legs
- Worsening pain after prolonged periods of standing or sitting
Milder cases might amount to a cosmetic issue, but untreated varicose veins can lead to complications like skin ulcers, bleeding, or even blood clots, so finding treatment in a timely manner is important.
How Are Varicose Veins Diagnosed?
A GP or specialist will usually be able to diagnose varicose veins after a physical examination of your legs, which will be in a standing position, and history taking to establish your symptoms.
For a more detailed look at the blood flow in your veins, you might be referred for a Doppler ultrasound, a painless test that uses sound waves to identify blood clots and determine how well your valves are doing their jobs.
Early detection is imperative—not solely to alleviate symptoms but also to halt additional complications and identify the most effective course of treatment.
Varicose Veins Treatment Options
At Chase Lodge Hospital, our extensive list of treatments where we come up with a plan according to your needs include:
1. Non-Surgical Treatments
- Compression socks: Specifically made to put mild pressure on the legs to promote healthy circulation and decrease swelling.
- Lifestyle changes: Exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight and elevate your legs.
- Sclerotherapy: A solution is injected into small veins, causing them to collapse and fade.
- Laser therapy: Suitable for small varicose veins or spider veins, this non-invasive option involves using light energy to seal off veins.
2. Medical and Surgical Treatments
- Endovenous laser ablation (EVLT): Minimally invasive procedure that uses laser energy to close larger varicose veins.
- Radiofrequency ablation: Similar to EVLT, but instead uses heat from radio waves to seal veins.
- Vein stripping or ligation: In more severe cases, this surgical procedure removes or ties off larger veins under general anaesthesia.
Medical treatment is needed when symptoms disrupt daily life, or when complications, like ulcers or deep vein thrombosis, occur.
How to Prevent Varicose Veins
While some risk factors, such as age and genetics, can’t be altered, there are several common-sense steps you can take to lower your risk:
- Keep moving: Walk, swim, cycle — all good for circulation.
- Maintain a healthy weight: A healthy BMI takes pressure off your veins.
- Avoid prolonged sitting or standing: Move around every half hour.
- Elevate your legs: This helps reduce swelling after a long day.
- Dress for comfort: Loose waistbands and flat shoes help make for a more pleasant experience.
- Wear compression stockings: Especially if you’re high-risk or pregnant.
Pregnant women should also avoid crossing their legs when sitting, elevate their feet as much as possible, and try to stay active with low-impact exercises such as walking or prenatal yoga.
When to See a Doctor
If you’re experiencing persistent pain, skin discolouration, ulcers, or swelling that doesn’t improve, it’s time to seek medical advice. Early intervention at Chase Lodge Hospital can significantly improve your symptoms and prevent further complications.
Conclusion
While varicose veins are common and can be a nuisance, they don’t have to interfere with life if you understand them, treat them or manage them. From diagnosing symptoms through to knowing when to seek advice, this guide has covered what varicose veins are, what causes them, how they can be treated, and most importantly — how to prevent them.
If you’re worried about varicose veins, don’t delay. Make the call to Chase Lodge Hospital now to discuss your symptoms with a specialist and start your journey to healthier legs and better health!
