Varicose veins develop when venous valves weaken or fail — allowing blood to pool and veins to enlarge and twist. Contributing factors include genetics, prolonged standing or sitting, pregnancy, older age, obesity, and prior deep vein thrombosis. The great saphenous vein is most commonly affected.

Most varicose veins cause discomfort but not serious medical risk. However, chronic venous insufficiency — the underlying condition — can progress to skin changes, ulceration, and superficial thrombophlebitis. Deep vein thrombosis risk is modestly elevated. Significant symptoms or skin changes warrant clinical evaluation.

Compression stockings reduce symptoms — aching, swelling, and fatigue — and slow progression, but do not eliminate existing varicose veins. They are an important part of conservative management and are typically recommended before procedural intervention is considered. Graduated compression (20–30 mmHg) is standard.

Endovenous thermal ablation (laser or radiofrequency) and sclerotherapy are the most commonly used minimally invasive procedures — both performed outpatient with high success rates and short recovery. Traditional surgical stripping is less commonly performed. Foam sclerotherapy is used for smaller veins and spider veins.

Compression stockings are very safe — skin irritation is the main concern. Thermal ablation may cause temporary bruising, tenderness, and skin numbness along the treated vein. Sclerotherapy can cause injection site pain, brown skin staining, and — rarely — visual disturbances with foam sclerotherapy. Serious complications including DVT are uncommon. Varicose Veins Consult visit What to expect from a Varicose Veins Consult visit