Most varicose veins are not life-threatening, but they are a chronic condition that can progress. They become a medical problem when they cause pain or swelling, skin discolouration, ulcers, bleeding, or inflammation and clots in the surface veins. Then treatment is advised, and most of it today is done without open surgery.
"Are varicose veins dangerous?" is one of the questions patients ask most. The short answer: most are not, but ignoring them for years can lead to real complications. What matters is knowing which stage you are at.
A progressive condition
Doctors grade chronic venous disease in stages: small thread veins, then visible varicose veins, then swelling, then skin changes, and finally ulcers. Not everyone progresses, but knowing your stage helps decide whether you need treatment.
When are they only cosmetic?
If the veins are visible but cause no pain, heaviness or swelling, and the skin has not changed colour, it is usually cosmetic. Treatment is then optional and up to you.
Signs they have become a medical problem
- Pain, heaviness and cramps that affect your day or sleep.
- Ankle swelling that recurs at the end of the day.
- Skin changes: brown discolouration near the ankle, itching and eczema, or hardened skin.
- An ulcer near the ankle that will not heal.
- Bleeding from an enlarged vein, even after a minor scratch.
- Superficial thrombophlebitis: redness, pain and a hard cord along the vein.
Do varicose veins cause dangerous clots?
Varicose veins are surface veins, and clots in them are usually superficial and less dangerous. In some cases, though, inflammation or clot can extend into the deep veins, so superficial thrombophlebitis needs a Doppler to check the deep system.
Can progression be prevented?
You cannot change your genes, but you can slow progression: regular walking, avoiding long periods of standing or sitting still, keeping a healthy weight, raising your legs when resting, and compression stockings when needed.
Treatment is simpler than you think
If treatment is needed, most cases today are treated with laser, radiofrequency or foam sclerotherapy, under local anaesthetic and without a surgical incision, with a quick return to activity. See the options on the varicose veins page.
Frequently asked questions
Can varicose veins kill you?
No. Varicose veins themselves are not fatal, but complications such as ulcers and bleeding need treatment, and any clot extending into the deep veins needs prompt assessment.
Should I treat varicose veins that don't hurt?
If they are cosmetic with no symptoms or skin changes, treatment is optional, but a Doppler to assess the veins is a good idea.
Do varicose veins go away on their own?
No. They don't disappear by themselves, though symptoms may improve with compression and lifestyle changes.
Content on this website is for awareness only and does not replace a specialist medical examination.