varicose veins

What can I do about varicose veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen, and twisting veins, often appearing blue or dark purple.

They happen when faulty valves in the veins allow blood to flow in the wrong direction or to pool.

More than 23 percentTrusted Source of all adults are thought to be affected by varicose veins. Approximately 1 in 4 adults in the United States is affected by varicose veins.

• Fast facts on varicose veins
• Pregnant women are more susceptible to varicose veins.
• Symptoms can include aching legs, swollen ankles, and spider veins.
• People who are overweight have an increased risk of varicose veins.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are large, swollen veins that often appear on the legs and feet. They happen when the valves in the veins do not work properly, so the blood does not flow effectively.

The veins rarely need treatment for health reasons, but if swelling, aching, and painful legs result, and if there is considerable discomfort, treatment is available.

There are various options, including some home remedies.

In severe cases, a varicose vein may rupture, or develop into varicose ulcers on the skin. These will require treatment.

Treatment

If the patient has no symptoms or discomfort and is not bothered by the sight of the varicose veins, treatment might not be necessary. However, if there are symptoms, treatment may be required to reduce pain or discomfort, address complications, such as leg ulcers, skin discoloration, or swelling.

Some patients may also want treatment for cosmetic reasons – they want to get rid of the “ugly” varicose veins.

Surgery

If varicose veins are large, they may need to be removed surgically. This is usually done under general anesthetic. In most cases, the patient can go home the same day – if surgery is required on both legs, they may need to spend one night in hospital.

Laser treatments are often used to close off smaller veins, and also spider veins. Strong bursts of light are applied to the vein, which gradually fades and disappears.

Ligation and stripping

Two incisions are made, one near the patient’s groin at the top of the target vein, and the other is made further down the leg, either at the ankle or knee. The top of the vein is tied up and sealed. A thin, flexible wire is threaded through the bottom of the vein and then pulled out, taking the vein with it.

This procedure does not usually require a hospital stay. Ligation and stripping can sometimes result in bruising, bleeding, and pain. In extremely rare occasions, there may be deep vein thrombosis.

After surgery, most patients will need 1-3 weeks to recover before going back to work and other normal duties. During recovery time, compression stockings are worn.

Sclerotherapy

A chemical is injected into small and medium-sized varicose veins, which scars and closes them. A few weeks later, they should fade. A vein may need to be injected more than once.

Radiofrequency ablation

A small incision is made either above or below the knee, and with the help of an ultrasound scan; a narrow tube (catheter) is threaded into the vein.

The doctor inserts a probe into the catheter, which emits radiofrequency energy. The radiofrequency energy heats up the vein, causing its walls to collapse, effectively closing it and sealing it shut. This procedure is preferred for larger varicose veins. Radiofrequency ablation is usually done with a local anesthetic.

Endogenous laser treatment

A catheter is inserted into the patient’s vein. A small laser is threaded through the catheter and positioned at the top of the target vein; it delivers short energy bursts that heat up the vein, sealing it shut.

With the aid of an ultrasound scan, the doctor threads the laser all the way up the vein, gradually burning and sealing all of it. This procedure is done under local anesthetic. There may be some nerve injury, which is usually brief.

Transilluminated powered phlebectomy

An endoscopic transilluminator (special light) is threaded through an incision under the skin so that the doctor can see which veins need to be taken out. The target veins are cut and removed with a suction device through the incision.

A general or local anesthetic may be used for this procedure. There may be some bleeding and bruising after the operation.

Symptoms

In the majority of cases, there is no pain, but signs and symptoms of varicose veins may include:

• veins look twisted, swollen, and lumpy (bulging)
• the veins are blue or dark purple

Some patients may also experience:

aching legs

• legs feel heavy, especially after exercise or at night
• a minor injury to the affected area may result in longer bleeding than normal
• lipodermatosclerosis – fat under the skin just above the ankle can become hard, resulting in the skin shrinking

swollen ankles

• telangiectasia in the affected leg (spider veins)
• there may be a shiny skin discoloration near the varicose veins, usually brownish or blue in color
• venous eczema (stasis dermatitis) – skin in the affected area is red, dry, and itchy
• when suddenly standing up, some individuals experience leg cramps
• a high percentage of people with varicose veins also have restless legs syndrome
• atrophie blanche – irregular whitish patches that look like scars appear at the ankles

Complications

Any condition in which proper blood flow is undermined has a risk of complications. However, in the majority of cases, varicose veins have no complications. If complications do occur, they may include:

Bleeding.

Thrombophlebitis: Blood clots in the vein of the leg cause inflammation of the vein.

Chronic venous insufficiency – the skin does not exchange oxygen, nutrients, and waste products with the blood properly because the blood flow is weak. Chronic venous insufficiency is not caused by varicose veins, but the two entities are closely related.

People with chronic venous insufficiency may develop varicose eczema, lipodermatosclerosis (hard and tight skin), and venous ulcers. Venous ulcers classically form around ankles and are often preceded by a discolored area. It is important to get medical evaluation for chronic venous insufficiency.

Causes

The veins have one-way valves so that the blood can travel in only one direction. If the walls of the vein become stretched and less flexible (elastic), the valves may get weaker. A weakened valve can allow blood to leak backward and eventually flow in the opposite direction. When this occurs, blood can accumulate in the vein(s), which then become enlarged and swollen.

Figure A shows a normal vein with a properly working valve. In Figure B, the varicose vein has a faulty valve, the walls of the vein are thin and stretched.

Image credit: National Heart Lung and Blood Institute.

The veins furthest from the heart are most often affected, such as those in the legs. This is because gravity makes it harder for blood to flow back to the heart. Any condition that puts pressure on the abdomen has the potential to cause varicose veins; for instance, pregnancy, constipation and, in rare cases, tumors.

Risk factors

Experts are not sure why the walls of veins stretch or why the valves become faulty. In many cases, it occurs for no clear reason. However, some potential risk factors include:

• menopause
• pregnancy
• being aged over 50
• standing for long periods
• family history of varicose veins
• obesity

The following risk factorsTrusted Source are linked to a higher risk of having varicose veins:

Gender: Varicose veins affect women more often than males. It may be that female hormones relax veins. If so, taking birth control pills or hormone therapy (HT) might contribute.

Genetics: Varicose veins often run in families.

Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of varicose veins.

Age: The risk increases with age, due to wear and tear on vein valves.

Some jobs: An individual who has to spend a long time standing at work may have a higher chance of varicose veins.

Pregnancy and varicose veins

Women are much more likely to develop varicose veins during their pregnancy than at any other time in their lives. Pregnant women have much more blood in their body; this places extra pressure on the circulatory system.

Additionally, changes in hormone levels can lead to a relaxation of the blood vessel walls. Both these factors raise the risk of having varicose veins.

As the uterus (womb) grows, there is more pressure on the veins in the mother’s pelvic area. In the majority of cases, the varicose veins go away after the pregnancy is over; this is not always the case, and sometimes, even if the varicose veins improve, there may be some left visible.

Home remedies

Measures can be taken at home to improve pain and prevent varicose veins from worsening.

These include:

• exercising
• losing weight
• raising the legs
• avoiding prolonged standing or sitting
• There are also many over-the-counter natural treatments, usually topical creams and emollients.

These can help soothe pain, and improve comfort and they may improve the general appearance of varicose veins.

Compression stockings

Compression stockings squeeze the patient’s legs and improve circulation.

They work are tight around the ankles and loose further up the leg. In this way, compression stockings encourage proper blood flow upwards, against gravity and back towards the heart.

Compression stockings may help with discomfort, pain, and swelling, but research has not confirmed whether they stop the varicose veins from worsening, or even prevent them. Studies have had mixed and conflicting results.

The stockings make some people’s skin dry and flaky. If this happens, it is important to tell a doctor.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of developing varicose veins:

• get plenty of exercise, for example, walking
• maintain a healthy weight
• avoid standing still for too long
• do not sit with the legs crossed
• sit or sleep with your feet raised on a pillow
• Anyone who has to stand for their job should try to move around at least once every 30 minutes.

Diagnosis

A physical examination, mainly visual, by a doctor will decide whether or not a patient has varicose veins. The patient will be asked to stand while the doctor checks for signs of swelling.

The following diagnostic tests are sometimes ordered:

Doppler test: An ultrasound scan to check the direction of blood flow in the veins. This test also checks for blood clots or obstructions in the veins.

Color duplex ultrasound scan: This provides color images of the structure of veins, which helps the doctor identify any abnormalities. It can also measure the speed of blood flow.

The patient may also be asked questions about the symptoms. In some cases, a doctor might refer the patient to a vascular specialist.

Can essential oils reduce varicose veins?

Varicose veins or spider veins can arise from aging, pregnancy, or sitting down for too long. They also tend to run in families. Along with medical treatments, a person may want to try home remedies for varicose veins, including essential oils.

Varicose veins are larger-than-normal veins that commonly appear in the legs. They are raised and often twisted veins that can be blue, red, or flesh-colored. Sometimes, these veins can ache, swell, or itch.

There are several studies to suggest that essential oils, such as grape vine, lavender, or yarrow, may be able to reduce or shrink the appearance of varicose or spider veins. However, more research is needed in this area.

In this article, we look at the best oils to use and the evidence behind them. We also look at the causes and prevention of varicose veins, and other methods for reducing varicose veins.

Causes of varicose veins

Veins are responsible for returning blood that does not have oxygen back toward the heart. There are tiny valves periodically throughout the veins to stop the blood from flowing backward.

• However, if these valves weaken or are damaged, blood can flow backward and pool. The result can be varicose veins.
• Varicose veins most commonly appear in the legs because the leg veins are under the greatest pressure to return blood to the heart.
• Several risk factors increase the likelihood a person will have varicose veins. These include:
• getting older, as the valves in veins start to weaken over time
• genetic history of family members with varicose veins
• pregnancy, as the growing uterus places extra pressure on a person’s veins
• being overweight
• sitting down for long time periods
• sun exposure, which mainly causes varicose veins on the face
• Although varicose veins are not usually a major cause for concern, they can be irritating and sometimes painful. Sometimes, a person may experience sores or skin ulcers related to poor blood flow in the legs.

Five best essential oils for varicose veins

Essential oils are derived from plants, including flowers, herbs, or trees. These oils are often used for alternative therapies. The dosages and instructions that come with them are not regulated, so a person should talk to a doctor before they use essential oils.

Some of the essential oils that have been studied in relation to varicose veins and their symptoms, such as leg swelling, include:

1. Lavender essential oil

Smelling lavender has been shown to help reduce pain, according to the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative MedicineTrusted Source.

Lavender is thought to affect brain chemicals, such as serotonin and GABA, which are associated with pain relief.

Applying lavender to the skin may reduce pain and the size of skin ulcers when massaged on the feet or other affected areas.

2. Horse chestnut essential oil

Horse chestnut seed extract (HCSE) can be prepared as a topical gel, oral tincture, or tablet. It may be useful in reducing swelling, pain, and itchiness.

According to an article published in the journal Advances in Therapy, topical applications of HCSE helped to reduce varicose vein symptoms, including leg swelling, leg pain, itching, and heaviness.

While the method of action is not known exactly, HCSE is thought to keep the small sections of veins known as capillaries from breaking down.

3. Sea pine essential oil

ResearchTrusted Source has suggested that sea pine essential oil could reduce swelling, or edema, in a person’s legs.

Research from 2018 shows that sea pine bark essential oil, also known as maritime pine oil has anti-inflammatory action.

This study also found that sea pine bark oil was superior to horse chestnut extract for reducing edema related to chronic venous insufficiency that can cause varicose veins. However, this study only tested 40 people, so more research is needed.

4. Grape vine essential oil

Grape vine essential oil may reduce swelling in a person’s legs, including swelling related to varicose veins.

According to a study published in the Journal of the German Society of DermatologyTrusted Source, taking red grape vine extract at dosages of 360 to 720 milligrams a day helped to reduce lower leg swelling related to weak blood flow through the veins, also called venous insufficiency, which is a common cause of varicose veins.

5. Yarrow essential oil

Essential oils extracted from the yarrow plant have been used traditionally for treating varicose veins. When a person applies yarrow to the skin above varicose veins, it may help to reduce their symptoms.

Other treatments

There are other treatments for varicose veins besides essential oils that people may wish to try.

Other treatments for varicose veins include:

Compression stockings. These are a common treatment for varicose veins as they improve blood circulation in the affected areas. People can buy them over the counter or online, and a doctor can prescribe stronger compression stockings when necessary.

Sclerotherapy. This treatment involves injecting chemicals into varicose veins that cause the veins to swell and seal shut. The veins may require several treatments to make sure they go away permanently.

Laser treatments. Laser treatments can help to treat varicose veins that are smaller than 3 millimeters in size.

Endovenous treatments. These methods are usually performed at a doctor’s office and involve inserting a small catheter into a vein and using heat to close off the affected vein. Because the varicose vein does not work well, to begin with, sealing it off does not usually cause significant side effects.

Surgical treatments. If varicose veins are very large and bothersome, a person may require surgery. This involves removing the veins in a procedure known as ligation and stripping.

Doctors are frequently inventing new treatments to treat varicose veins. However, varicose veins are normal, and if they are not causing a person significant symptoms and have no side effects, they usually do not require medical or invasive treatment.

Preventing varicose veins

Because genetics and hormones play a role in the development of varicose veins, it is not always possible to prevent them from forming. However, there are some steps a person can take to reduce their risk for varicose veins.

Possible steps for preventing varicose veins include:

• Exercising regularly to improve circulation and promote the return of blood to the heart.
• Dieting and exercising to maintain a healthy weight.
• Avoiding crossing the legs if sitting for long periods, as this can reduce blood flow to the legs.
• Taking frequent “walk breaks” to stimulate blood flow in the legs and throughout the body.
• Wearing support stockings, which provide mild pressure to compress the legs and encourage blood flow to return.
• Avoiding excessively tight clothing around the waist, groin, and upper legs, as this can restrict blood flowing back toward the heart.
• Cutting back on salt, as excessive sodium can lead to swelling.

Risks of essential oils

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate essential oils. However, these oils do fall under the “generally recognized as safe” or GRAS classification.

To be safe, essential oils must be diluted in a carrier oil before use. Put 3 to 5 drops of the essential oil in 3 tablespoons of sweet almond oil, coconut oil that has been warmed up, or olive oil and apply gently to the skin.

Essential oils do not often cause significant side effects, though they can be toxic when swallowed, leading to nausea and vomiting.

Applying essential oils to the skin may also cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in some people. A person should always do a patch test before they use the oil. This involves applying a small amount of essential oil to a small patch of skin and waiting overnight to test for swelling or allergic reactions.

Lastly, a person applying citrus oils may find that their skin becomes more sensitive to the sun.

Outlook

Unless varicose veins cause medical problems for a person, they do not usually require invasive treatments.

If adding essential oils and leg massages do help a person experience reduced symptoms, then this can be of benefit.

A person should always talk to their doctor about using essential oils to treat varicose veins, and about other treatments if essential oils are not effective.

Home remedies for varicose veins

Varicose veins occur when a person’s veins become swollen and enlarged. In some people, they can cause pain and discomfort. A range of home treatments may help to reduce the appearance and pain of varicose veins.

Around 20 percentTrusted Source of adults will experience varicose veins at some point. There are several medical treatments for this condition, though a person may also wish to try natural home remedies to relieve their symptoms.

In this article, we look at 10 natural ways to treat varicose veins at home

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins can develop when small valves in the veins become weak. These valves usually stop blood flowing backward through the veins, and when they are damaged blood can pool in the veins. This causes twisted and swollen veins that also become very visible.

Varicose veins can be noticeable because of their dark blue or purple appearance, they also often bulge out from underneath the skin.

Other symptoms of varicose veins include:

• burning or throbbing sensation in the legs
• uncomfortable legs that feel heavy or achy
• muscle cramps that can be more noticeable at night
• swelling of the feet and ankles
• dry or itchy skin that appears thinner over the varicose vein
• Ten home treatments for varicose veins

If a person has varicose veins, they can try the following home remedies to help manage the condition and improve symptoms:

1. Exercise

Regular exercise encourages better blood circulation in the legs, which helps to push along the blood that has collected in the veins. Exercise also helps to lower a person’s blood pressure, which is another contributing factor to varicose veins.

Low-impact exercises help to get the calf muscles working without excessive strain. Effective, low-impact exercises include:

• swimming
• walking
• cycling
• yoga

2. Compression stockings

Compression stockings are available from most pharmacies and can help by applying pressure to the legs. This aids the muscles and veins to move blood toward the heart.

A study from 2018 found that people who used knee-high compression stockings with a pressure of 18 to 21 mmHg for one week, reported a reduction in the pain and aching associated with varicose veins.

Compression stockings can be found in pharmacies or online stores.

3. Plant extracts

A review study from 2006 suggests that horse chestnut extract, Aesculus hippocastanum L., may help to reduce leg pain, heaviness, and itching in people with chronic venous insufficiency, which is a major cause of varicose veins. Aesculus hippocastanum L. is available to purchase in health stores and online.

A review study from 2010Trusted Source reports that sea pine extract, Pinus maritima, and Butcher’s broom extract, Ruscus aculeatus, may both reduce leg swelling, or edema, that is often associated with varicose veins. Ruscus aculeatus is available to purchase in health stores and online.

Plant extracts and essential oils should be diluted in carrier oils before being applied topically or used in a diffuser for aromatherapy.

4. Dietary changes

Salty or sodium-rich foods can cause the body to retain water, so cutting down on salty food can minimize water retention. Foods high in potassium can help to reduce water retention.

• Foods that are high in potassium include:
• almonds and pistachio nuts
• lentils and white beans
• potatoes
• leafy vegetables
• some fish, such as salmon and tuna

Foods with fiber help to keep the bowels moving and prevent constipation. This may be important, as straining can aggravate damaged valves or make them worse.

• Foods that are high in fiber include:
• nuts, seeds, and legumes
• oats, wheat, and flaxseed
• whole-grain foods

People who are overweight are more likely to experience varicose veins, therefore, shedding any excess pounds can reduce the pressure on the veins and alleviate swelling and discomfort.

5. Eat more flavonoids

Adding foods that contain flavonoids may also help a person to shrink their varicose veins.

Flavonoids improve blood circulation, which will keep the blood flowing, and make it less likely to pool in the veins. They also help to reduce blood pressure in the arteries and can relax blood vessels, all of which can reduce varicose veins.

Foods that contain flavonoids include:

• vegetables, including onions, bell peppers, spinach, and broccoli
• citrus fruits and grapes, cherries, apples, and blueberries
• cocoa
• garlic

6. Herbal remedies

According to the National Institute of HealthTrusted Source, taking grape seed extract, Vitis vinifera, orally may help to reduce swelling in the lower legs and other symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, though there is currently limited evidence for its effectiveness.

A person prescribed with blood-thinning medication should avoid taking grape seed extract, as a dietary supplement, as it can interact with the medication and increase the risk of bleeding.

7. Choose non-restrictive clothing

Wearing tight-fitting clothes can restrict blood flow. A person may find that their circulation is improved by wearing loose-fitting clothes that do not restrict the blood supply to the lower body.

Wearing flat shoes instead of high heels may also help with varicose veins in the legs.

8. Keep the legs elevated

Keeping the legs elevated, ideally at the same height as the heart or above it will help to improve circulation. This reduces the pressure in the leg veins and gravity will help the blood to flow smoothly back to the heart.

A person should aim to keep their legs elevated if they are going to be sitting down for long periods of time, such as during work or rest.

9. Massage

Gently massaging the affected areas can help to keep the blood moving through the veins. A person can use gentle massage oils or moisturizer for optimal effects.

It is crucial to avoid pressing directly onto the veins, however, as this may damage fragile tissues.

10. Keep moving

Avoid sitting for long periods of time. If a person has to sit for long periods of time for work, they should aim to get up and move around or change position frequently to keep the blood flowing smoothly.

Avoid sitting with crossed legs, as this can further restrict blood flow to the legs and feet, which may add to circulation problems.

Medical treatments for varicose veins

If varicose veins home treatments are not working or causing a person severe discomfort, medical treatment is also available to help tackle varicose veins. A doctor may prescribe the following:

Endothermal ablation. This is a procedure where heat is used to seal the affected veins.

Ambulatory phlebectomy. This is where a doctor will puncture the skin and remove the varicose veins through small slits. Scarring is usually minimal afterward.

Sclerotherapy. This procedure uses a particular foam to close the veins and shrink them.

Ligation and stripping. In this procedure, the varicose veins are surgically removed.

Laser surgeries. Here, intense bursts of light are directed onto the vein, making it gradually fade and disappear.

Endoscopic vein surgery. During this surgery, a tiny video camera is inserted into the leg to help the surgeon see better. Removal of the veins then takes place via a series of small incisions.

Outlook

Varicose veins can cause discomfort and make a person feel self-conscious. Treating varicose veins at home is possible, and diet and lifestyle changes may improve the symptoms.

People with severe varicose veins may wish to seek medical treatments to help reduce their appearance and improve symptoms.

Talking through the options with a doctor will help an individual make the best and most informed decision about the right treatment for them.

What is sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a form of treatment where a doctor injects medicine into blood vessels or lymph vessels that causes them to shrink. It is commonly used to treat varicose veins or so-called spider veins.

The procedure is non-surgical, requiring only an injection. It can also be used to treat blood and lymph vessel disorders that cause these vessels to form incorrectly.

Sclerotherapy uses an irritating solution called a sclerosant, which is injected directly into a vein or lymph vessel. The solution irritates the vessel, causing it to swell. This swelling cuts off the flow of blood or lymphatic fluid and the vessel shrinks.

Various formsTrusted Source of sclerotherapy have been around since the 19th century, but techniques have improved in recent decades.

In this article, we take a look at the uses of sclerotherapy, what to expect from this treatment, as well as during the recovery period.

What conditions does sclerotherapy treat?

Sclerotherapy is most often used to treat varicose veins. Varicose veins are also known as chronic venous insufficiency.

Varicose veins occur when the veins swell and bulge, usually in the legs. This is due to weak vein walls that, in turn, weaken the vein valves. As a result, blood pools up the veins, causing them to swell and look different.

Varicose veins may be painful and can cause skin issues, including rashes. By shrinking the veins, sclerotherapy reduces the effects of vein damage, making varicose veins less visible and less painful.

Sclerotherapy is also used to treat some other conditions, including:

Malformed lymph vessels. These are vessels that carry lymphatic fluid or lymph, which helps the immune system fight infections.

Hemorrhoids. Sclerotherapy may be used when other treatments fail. Hemorrhoids occur when blood vessels, surrounding the rectum, swell and become irritated, causing pain and making bowel movements uncomfortable.

HydrocelesTrusted Source. A hydrocele is an unhealthy development of fluid in a body cavity. Hydroceles are common in the testicles.

When to consider sclerotherapy

Not everyone who has spider veins or another condition that can be treated with sclerotherapy needs to have the procedure. People should discuss their symptoms and treatment options with their doctor to decide if it is necessary.

Other treatments may be more affordable and less invasive. Hemorrhoids, for example, often respond well to nonprescription treatments. This can include lifestyle changes, such as eating more fiber and not straining when having a bowel movement.

People with spider veins should consider sclerotherapy when:

• the veins are painful
• the legs are sore or feel heavy
• the skin on the legs or feet is patchy or dry
• there is a rash near the veins

What to expect from sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy requires a consultation with a doctor to assess the problematic vein or lymph vessel. Sclerotherapy for spider veins is usually performed in the office of a dermatologist or a vein specialist.

The procedure does not usually require anesthesia or any special preparation. People should follow the doctor’s instructions before surgery since it might be necessary to avoid lotions or oils beforehand.

During the treatment, the person lies on their back with their legs up. A doctor cleans the area, then inserts a small needle into the vein. The needle may pinch.

The doctor injects the vein with an irritating solution. The individual may feel burning, tingling, or nothing at all.

When the injection is complete, the doctor will massage the area to prevent blood from re-entering the vein. The individual may need to wear a pad or compression stockings in the area.

In most casesTrusted Source, someone will need follow-up treatment to collapse a vein fully. If there are several varicose veins, numerous treatments may be the only way to get rid of them.

After the treatment, people should remain active to prevent blood clots from forming. Most will also need to avoid sunlight, which can cause dark spots on the treated area.

Some people experience tenderness or bruising at the site of the injection, but recovery is otherwise relatively easy.

Risks of sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a safe procedure. It is a less invasive and risky option than surgery, as it does not require anesthesia.

Research suggests that it effectively removes spider veins in 75–90 percent of cases, but typically requires multiple treatments. When sclerotherapy does not work, additional treatments, including surgery, may be needed.

The most common negative reactions to sclerotherapy include bruising, redness, and pain near the injected vein. About a third of people develop small branches of blood vessels surrounding the injected vein. These vessels usually disappear on their own.

Less frequently, an individual may experience allergic reactions to the solution, burning in the vein, and changes to skin color.

Tiny air bubbles from the needle can also get into the bloodstream, causing changes in vision, headache, and nausea.

Very rarely, a blood clot can form in the treated vein. Blood clots can travel to areas of the body and become life-threatening if left untreated. If a blood clot moves, it can cause an embolism.

People should seek emergency treatment if they experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, or dizziness after having sclerotherapy.

What are the symptoms?

Sometimes, varicose veins cause no symptoms, while other times, they produce a range of symptoms. Common symptoms include:

• aching and uncomfortable legs
• swollen feet and ankles
• burning or throbbing
• muscle cramps, particularly at night
• itchy skin over the affected area
• skin discoloration
• heaviness or fatigue in the legs

Symptoms tend to be worse during warm weather, late in the day, or when a person has been standing up for extended periods.

Pain

Varicose veins are a common cause of leg pain. People often describe the pain as heaviness or a deep ache.

There are varying degrees of pain associated with varicose veins, and some people experience severe symptoms.

One condition that can cause pain is known as phlebitis, which occurs when varicose veins become inflamed and form blood clots. Signs that a person may have phlebitis include:

• pain
• heat
• hardness
• discoloration

If a vein bursts, blood can pool around the affected area and pressure and toxins may build up. Sometimes an ulcer may develop, or a person’s skin may tear as a result of a varicose vein, which can be extremely painful.