At a glance:
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that can appear as bulging “rope‑like” veins, usually in the legs. They may be primarily a comfort and quality‑of‑life issue, but they can also be a sign that the valves in the leg veins are not working well.
Common feelings patients describe:
A frequent driver is venous insufficiency (venous reflux)—when vein valves don’t close properly and blood falls backward, increasing pressure in the veins.
Some patients may also have issues deeper in the venous system (such as iliac vein compression/deep venous obstruction) that can contribute to swelling or recurrent symptoms.
Risk factors can include:
A frequent driver is venous insufficiency (venous reflux)—when vein valves don’t close properly and blood falls backward, increasing pressure in the veins.
Some patients may also have issues deeper in the venous system (such as iliac vein compression/deep venous obstruction) that can contribute to swelling or recurrent symptoms.
Risk factors can include:
Some symptoms can signal problems that need urgent evaluation.
We start with your symptoms and a focused exam, then usually recommend a venous reflux ultrasound to evaluate vein valve function and map the veins.
If symptoms suggest deeper venous involvement (for example, persistent one‑sided swelling or history of clot), we may discuss additional evaluation options.
If you’re dealing with bulging veins, aching, heaviness, or swelling, the next step is a vein evaluation to confirm the cause and review options such as vein closure techniques and other minimally invasive treatments.
If you’re dealing with bulging veins, aching, heaviness, or swelling, the next step is a vein evaluation to confirm the cause and review options such as vein closure techniques and other minimally invasive treatments.
Many are not dangerous, but symptoms and skin changes can be meaningful. An evaluation helps determine if reflux or deeper venous issues are contributing.
Ultrasound is commonly used to confirm reflux and guide the best treatment approach.
Treatment options can include vein closure (ablation), medical adhesives (e.g., VenaSeal), foam therapy (e.g., Varithena), and other options depending on anatomy and evaluation.