Varicose Veins

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

Your varicose veins cause significant discomfort: If you experience pain, aching, throbbing, or tiredness in your legs that interferes with daily activities, see a GP.
You notice changes in the skin near varicose veins: This could include discoloration, dryness, itching, or development of ulcers. These can be signs of complications.
Varicose veins seem to be worsening: If the size, colour, or number of varicose veins increases noticeably, consult your GP.
You experience sudden leg pain or swelling: This could be a sign of a blood clot, a serious complication.
The skin near your varicose veins becomes red, hot, and tender: This could indicate an infection that requires prompt medical attention.
You develop a fever or chills along with varicose vein symptoms: This could be a sign of an infection and requires immediate medical evaluation.

Information

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

Your varicose veins cause significant discomfort: If you experience pain, aching, throbbing, or tiredness in your legs that interferes with daily activities, see a GP.
You notice changes in the skin near varicose veins: This could include discoloration, dryness, itching, or development of ulcers. These can be signs of complications.
Varicose veins seem to be worsening: If the size, colour, or number of varicose veins increases noticeably, consult your GP.
You experience sudden leg pain or swelling: This could be a sign of a blood clot, a serious complication.
The skin near your varicose veins becomes red, hot, and tender: This could indicate an infection that requires prompt medical attention.
You develop a fever or chills along with varicose vein symptoms: This could be a sign of an infection and requires immediate medical evaluation.

Do:

Elevate your legs: Prop your legs up above your heart whenever possible, especially at the end of the day. This helps improve circulation and reduce swelling.
Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity, particularly walking, swimming, or cycling, keeps blood flowing and reduces pressure in the veins.
Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts extra strain on your veins. Losing weight, if needed, can significantly improve symptoms.
Wear compression stockings: These stockings apply gentle pressure to your legs, which helps improve blood flow and reduce swelling. Consult your doctor for proper fitting.
Avoid tight clothing: Restrictive clothing around your waist or legs can impede circulation. Opt for loose-fitting clothing.
Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can improve circulation and overall health.
Manage chronic conditions: If you have high blood pressure or other health issues that contribute to varicose veins, work with your doctor to manage them effectively.

Don't:

Stand or sit for long periods: Take frequent breaks to move around and keep your blood flowing.
Cross your legs: Crossing your legs can restrict blood flow in your legs.
Wear high heels regularly: High heels can worsen varicose veins by straining your calf muscles, which pump blood back to your heart.
Expose yourself to excessive heat: Avoid hot baths, saunas, and prolonged sun exposure, as heat can cause varicose veins to appear worse.
Smoke: Smoking damages blood vessels and can worsen varicose veins.
Ignore worsening symptoms: If your symptoms worsen, develop new ones, or you notice skin changes near varicose veins, see your doctor right away.

Possible Questions:

Can you describe your symptoms? (pain, aching, swelling, itching, etc.)
For how long have you been experiencing these symptoms?
Have you noticed any changes in the appearance of your varicose veins? (colour, size, etc.)
Do you have any underlying medical conditions? (high blood pressure, blood clots, etc.)
Do you have a family history of varicose veins?
What is your typical daily routine? (occupation, activity level, etc.)
Do your symptoms worsen after prolonged standing or sitting?
Do your legs feel better after elevating them?
Do you experience any cramping or restless legs at night?
Have you ever noticed any skin changes near your varicose veins? (discoloration, ulcers, etc.)
Are you currently pregnant or taking any hormonal medications? (birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy)

1.Symptoms

What are the symptoms of varicose veins?

Varicose veins can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

Visible, twisted veins that bulge on the surface of the skin
Aching pain, especially after standing or sitting for long periods
Heaviness or fatigue in the legs
Swelling in the ankles and feet
Itching or burning sensation around the veins
Skin discoloration near the affected veins

Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information.

2.Diagnosis

How are varicose veins diagnosed?

Diagnosis of varicose veins typically involves a combination of:

Medical history: Your doctor will discuss your symptoms and any risk factors for varicose veins, such as family history, pregnancy, and obesity.
Physical exam: They will examine your legs for visible varicose veins and may perform a test called the "Valsalva maneuver" to assess blood flow in your veins.
Ultrasound: This imaging test uses sound waves to create a picture of your veins and assess blood flow.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

3.Treatment

What are the treatment options for varicose veins?

There are several treatment options available for varicose veins, depending on the severity of your condition. Here are some common approaches:

Compression stockings: These specialised stockings apply gentle pressure to your legs, which can help improve circulation and reduce swelling.
Sclerotherapy: This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting a solution into the varicose vein, causing it to scar and collapse.
Laser treatment: Laser energy can be used to target and close varicose veins.
Radiofrequency ablation: This procedure uses radiofrequency waves to heat and close the varicose vein.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the varicose veins.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

What can I expect after varicose vein treatment?

Recovery time varies depending on the specific treatment used. Generally, minimally invasive procedures require minimal downtime, while surgery may require a longer recovery period. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on post-operative care, including pain management, compression therapy, and activity restrictions.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

4.Insurance

At LIPS we work with a wide range of insurance providers. However, coverage for varicose vein treatment can vary depending on your specific plan and whether the treatment is considered medically necessary or cosmetic.

Will my insurance cover varicose vein treatment?

Coverage varies depending on your insurance plan. LIPS can assist you in understanding your coverage and can provide a letter of medical necessity if needed.

Does LIPS offer financing options?

LIPS may offer financing options for patients. Please inquire with them directly for details.

How does LIPS work with the National Health Service?

Our goal is to give you answers as quickly as possible and get you on the right treatment path fast – no strings attached. When you come to us, you will be seen by a qualified specialist who can determine if your situation is serious or not that same day. We don’t want you to wait weeks on end for an appointment because every minute counts when it comes to something as important as your health. If your situation is serious, our specialist will write to your doctor on the NHS advising them that you need an urgent appointment.