What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that appear blue or purple under the skin, most commonly in the legs. Over 30% of Indian adults experience varicose vein symptoms, making early diagnosis crucial. The condition develops when vein valves fail, allowing blood to reflux and stretch veins into rope-like formations.
Symptoms: Early Warning Signs
Common Symptoms
- Aching, heavy, tired legs — worse after standing
- Ankle and foot swelling, especially in evenings
- Throbbing, muscle cramping, or burning sensations
- Itchy, discoloured skin around affected veins
- Restless leg syndrome at night
Advanced Symptoms (Complications)
- Leg ulcers near the ankles
- Bleeding from ruptured veins
- Inflammation or skin hardening
- Sudden swelling (may indicate deep vein thrombosis)
Causes & Risk Factors
- Family history: 50% risk when both parents are affected
- Age over 50: Vein walls weaken with age
- Obesity: Increases pressure on leg veins
- Prolonged standing/sitting: Teachers, nurses, sales professionals are at higher risk
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and uterine pressure on pelvic veins
- Female gender: 2–3x higher risk than males
Varicose Veins vs Spider Veins
FeatureVaricose VeinsSpider VeinsSizeOver 3mm, raised/twistedUnder 1mm, fine/flatSymptomsPain, swelling, heavinessUsually painlessTreatmentAblation, surgery, sclerotherapySclerotherapy, laserRiskUlcers, clots, chronic venous insufficiencyCosmetic only Best Treatment Options in 2025
Conservative Management
- Graduated compression stockings (20–30 mmHg)
- Leg elevation (15–30° above heart level)
- Regular calf muscle exercises
- Weight management
Minimally Invasive Treatments (95%+ Success)
- Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT): 97% success, 1–2 day recovery
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): 95% success, same-day return home
- Foam Sclerotherapy: 85–90% success, 1–3 day recovery
- VenaSeal (Glue): 94% success, immediate return
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy: 98% success via tiny 1–2 mm cuts
Recovery Timeline
- Day 1: Mild soreness, walking encouraged
- Week 1: Compression stockings, no heavy lifting
- Week 2: Resume work, bruising fades
- Month 1: Veins close completely
- Month 3: Full cosmetic results, improved skin texture
10 Prevention Tips
- Maintain a healthy BMI
- Walk 30 minutes daily
- Elevate legs when resting
- Wear compression stockings for high-risk jobs
- Avoid tight clothing at the waist
- Take standing breaks every hour
- Stay well hydrated
- Eat a high-fibre diet
- Do calf strengthening exercises
- Get regular vein check-ups after age 40
Frequently Asked Questions
Are varicose veins dangerous? Mostly cosmetic but can lead to ulcers, bleeding, or blood clots if untreated.
Can varicose veins disappear on their own? They rarely resolve without treatment and usually worsen over time.
Is laser treatment painful? Local anaesthesia is used. Patients experience mild discomfort at most.
Will they come back after treatment? Recurrence rates are below 10% with advanced procedures.