Varicose veins causes and treatments

With spring break shorts and swimsuit season here, many people are showing off their legs for the first time in months, and for some, that also means deciding what to do about varicose veins.

The bulging purple or blue lines may be simply a cosmetic issue, or they could be a sign of a serious medical problem, says Mayo Clinic emeritus vascular surgeon Dr. Peter Gloviczki.

“Twenty to 25 percent of Americans have varicose veins, and about 6 percent have more advanced venous disease, including skin changes or, occasionally, ulcerations,” says Gloviczki, who helped develop Society for Vascular Surgery and American Venous Forum guidelines for treatment. “Evaluation of varicose veins with ultrasound is an easy and accurate way to assess the need for treatment. New, minimally invasive therapy is available that is effective and is performed as outpatient treatment.”

Varicose veins are virtually impossible to prevent, Gloviczki says. Like their smaller cousins — spider veins — varicose veins typically appear in the legs, ankles and feet, because standing and walking put more pressure on veins in the lower body. The loss of vein elasticity through aging may cause varicose veins, and pregnant women often develop them. People who are obese, sit or stand a lot or have a family history of varicose veins are also more likely to get them.

Enlarged veins can ache, itch and burn, and patients with such discomfort should have a physician check whether the varicose veins are a sign of more serious medical problems, Gloviczki says. Varicose veins can lead to swollen legs, skin changes, bleeding from varicose veins, blood clots and ulcers. Exercising, losing weight and elevating the legs can ease pain and prevent varicose veins from worsening. Special hosiery called compression stockings that squeeze the legs, improving blood flow, is often suggested before medical procedures are pursued.

©2018 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

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