Varicose Veins

Do your legs ache or feel heavy after a long day of standing or sitting?

Those bulging, blue veins on your legs might be more than just a cosmetic concern: they could be varicose veins.

While they often develop slowly, untreated varicose veins can lead to swelling, skin changes, and even venous ulcers. Read on to learn what causes varicose veins and how they can be treated effectively.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that appear blue or purple, most commonly around the legs and ankles.

They occur when the valves in the veins weaken, causing blood to pool in the lower limbs instead of returning upward toward the heart. Over time, this increases pressure and makes the veins stretch and bulge.

Varicose Veins Symptoms

Varicose veins often develop gradually and may worsen over time. Recognising early signs can help prevent complications.

Visible Veins

Visible Veins Twisted, bulging, or rope-like veins, especially on the legs and ankles.

Leg Heaviness or Aching

A dull ache, or heaviness in the legs, esp after long periods of standing.

Swelling

Mild to moderate swelling around the ankles or lower legs due to poor circulation.

Skin Changes

Skin discoloration around veins: reddish-brown or dark purple
Caused by iron buildup (hemosiderin) from broken-down blood cells
May progress to dryness, flaking, itching, or hardened skin (lipodermatosclerosis) if untreated

Restless or Cramping Legs

Night-time cramps or a restless feeling in the legs, commonly due to venous pressure.
Throbbing, muscle cramps, and dull aching pain that worsens after long periods of sitting or standing.
Discomfort also worsens during the monsoon season or in humid weather.

Varicose Veins: Treatment

A doppler ultrasound evaluation is performed to assess the severity & determine the best treatment plan. Some treatment options are:

Lifestyle Modifications

Avoid prolonged sitting or standing to improve circulation.
Daily walking or ‘raise the heel’ exercise to activate the calf muscle pump.
Healthy weight management & leg elevation can further help relieve symptoms in mild to moderate cases.

Compression Therapy

Wearing graduated compression stockings helps support the veins and prevent blood pooling.
Customised stockings are more comfortable and efficient.

Foam Sclerotherapy

A simple procedure where a medical solution is injected to close smaller varicose or spider veins.

Endovenous Laser or Radiofrequency Ablation (EVLA/RFA)

A minimally invasive technique that seals damaged veins using laser or heat energy.
The procedure is performed through a single puncture, no incision, no stitches required.

Glue Ablation: VenaSeal

A special medical adhesive material is injected in the affected vein to seal the affected vein permanently.
The sealed vein is naturally absorbed by the body over time

Hook Phlebectomy

A precise surgical technique used to remove visible varicose veins through tiny skin punctures.
Performed under local anaesthesia using a fine, hook-shaped instrument to gently extract the vein.

Modern varicose vein treatments are safe, effective, and require minimal recovery time. At CIIVES, a team of expert vascular surgeons suggest the best treatment options for your condition.

Varicose Vein Results: Before & After

Discover how minimally invasive treatments help relieve pain and improve the appearance of legs.

Resources

Watch videos to understand how varicose vein treatments work and what to expect during recovery.

Explore related articles to know more about Varicose Vein, ways to prevent it, and how to care for yourself after treatment.

What is Vascular Surgery?

Who Are Vascular Surgeons?

वास्कुलर सर्जन कौन होते हैं?

Fistula First

क्या है वास्कुलर सर्जरी ?

फिस्टुला फर्स्ट

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Early treatment prevents future complications and improves your quality of life.