Varicose veins Mate ia auraki

In healthy veins, blood flows up towards your heart. Small valves open to allow your blood through, then the valves close to stop your blood from flowing backwards.

Varicose veins happen when:

• the valves in your veins are weakened or damaged, so blood can flow back through them causing them to swell
• the walls of your veins have become weak (venous insufficiency) causing them to swell.

You may be at greater risk of developing varicose veins if you:

• are older
• are pregnant or going through menopause
• have a family history of varicose veins
• stand or sit for long periods.

Varicose veins can range from small to very large and bulging. They are usually a blue or purple colour.

Most varicose veins do not cause any symptoms. But larger varicose veins can cause:

• mild swelling in your ankles or legs
• achy, heavy legs
• throbbing in your legs.

You can get varicose veins in other parts of your body such as your pelvis. But they are most common in your legs and feet.

Having varicose veins can increase your risk of complications including:

• varicose eczema
• venous leg ulcers
• thrombophlebitis

Your healthcare provider can usually easily diagnose varicose veins by their appearance. 

Treatment options include wearing compression stockings and surgery.

Compression stockings

For most people the only treatment you might need is to wear compression stockings. These apply pressure to your veins, which encourages blood flow towards your heart.

Compression stockings

Surgery

Some people with varicose veins may need or want surgery if they:

• have complications such as leg ulcers
• have aching veins
• want them removed for cosmetic reasons.

Types of surgery include:

• sclerotherapy — where a chemical is injected into your vein to irritate the vein wall, which makes it close up and fade away
• radiofrequency ablation — where the walls of your varicose veins are heated, causing them to collapse, which closes them and seals them shut
• endovenous laser therapy — where a laser heats up your vein causing it to seal and close.

When the varicose veins have been closed up, your body redirects your blood flow to healthier veins in your legs.

Your healthcare provider may refer you to a vascular surgeon (a surgical doctor who specialises in blood vessels). Depending on your symptoms, this may be available in a public hospital. Alternatively, your healthcare provider will be able to guide you to a private vascular surgeon.

Search for a private vascular surgeon — Healthpointexternal link

You cannot control all risk factors, but lifestyle changes can help you lower some risks. This means:

• stopping smoking
• keeping physically active
• maintaining a healthy weight
• eating well with plenty of fibre-rich foods
• drinking plenty of fluids
• avoiding wearing high-heeled shoes for long periods
• avoiding sitting and standing for long periods
• raising your legs so your feet are above your hips when lying down, and when sitting if possible.