Understanding Varicose Veins: Key Facts You Should Know

By Mr. Devaraj Srinivasamurthy, Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon

Varicose veins are one of the most common vein disorders affecting adults, yet many people ignore early symptoms until complications develop. Knowing the right facts can help you seek timely treatment and prevent long-term problems. Here are some important and often misunderstood facts about varicose veins.

Varicose veins are more than a cosmetic concern—they are a sign your veins need attention. Treat early, walk freely.

1. Varicose Veins Affect Up to 1 in 3 Adults

Varicose veins are extremely common. Nearly one-third of adults experience them at some point in life. Age, lifestyle, genetics, and occupation all play a role in their development.

2. Standing for Long Periods Can Make Them Worse

If your job requires long hours of standing—such as teaching, salon work, retail, or factory shifts—you are at a higher risk. Prolonged standing increases pressure in the leg veins, making varicose veins more visible and more painful over time.

3. Pregnancy Can Worsen Varicose Veins

Many women develop or notice worsening varicose veins during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and increased pressure on leg veins. While some improve after delivery, others may persist and require treatment.

4. Compression Stockings Help, but They Don’t Cure

Compression stockings can relieve symptoms like heaviness, swelling, and discomfort.However, they do not cure varicose veins because they cannot fix underlying valve damage in the veins. They are supportive—not curative.

5. Modern Treatments Are Minimally Invasive

Gone are the days of painful vein-stripping surgeries. Today’s varicose vein treatments are:✔ Minimally invasive✔ Performed under local anesthesia✔ Safe, fast, and highly effective Procedures like laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, and foam sclerotherapy allow patients to return home the same day.

6. Crossing Your Legs Does NOT Cause Varicose Veins

This is a popular myth.Crossing your legs does not cause varicose veins. Vein valve weakness, genetics, pregnancy, obesity, and prolonged standing/sitting are the real contributors.

7. Varicose Veins Can Cause Skin Changes

If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to:

• Darkened or discolored skin around the ankles

• Itching or dryness

• Skin inflammation

• Hardening of tissues

• Non-healing ulcers (venous ulcers)

These are signs of advanced venous disease and need immediate medical attention.

8. Treatment Can Prevent Complications

Early treatment of varicose veins can prevent:

• Leg swelling

• Skin damage

• Vein bleeding

• Painful ulcers

• Infection

• Deep venous issues

Timely treatment improves long-term leg health and enhances quality of life.

9. Walk-In, Walk-Out Treatments Are Available

Most varicose vein procedures today are day-care procedures, meaning:

• No hospital admission

• No stitches

• Quick recovery

• Back to routine activities in 24–48 hours

This makes treatment convenient even for busy professionals.

Final Thoughts

Varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic concern—they are a medical condition that requires expert evaluation. With modern minimally invasive options, treatment is simpler, safer, and more comfortable than ever. If you notice symptoms such as leg heaviness, swelling, visible veins, or skin changes, do not delay consultation. Early intervention can save you from significant discomfort and future complications.

Expert Vascular Care by Mr Devaraj Srinivasamurthy Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon

Warwickshire Vascular Clinic