About varicose veins

Varicose veins are veins in the leg that have become enlarged and often appear 'lumpy’. A high proportion of the population, both men and women, suffer from varicose veins at some time in their life. Whilst varicose veins sometimes occur in relatively young people, their prevalence increases with age.

Varicose veins arise when the valves that control the flow of blood within the vein become faulty. These valves prevent blood flowing back down the leg after it has been pumped up by the movement of the leg muscles. If the valves don’t stop the blood flowing back down the leg it gathers where there is a weakness in the wall of the vein causing the vein to enlarge.

Most people with varicose veins have no symptoms and suffer no ill effects. However, for many people they can be unsightly; can cause discomfort, itching and aching; and in rare cases can lead to ulceration of the leg. For those suffering discomfort or pain, this is usually most evident late in the day or after long periods of standing.

Temporary relief may be achieved by sitting with the affected leg resting on a stool or by wearing a support stocking. For most patients who have unsightly varicose veins or who are suffering from regular discomfort, the long-term solution is the removal of the vein with the faulty valves. Varicose vein treatment from BMI Healthcare can remove or disable the varicose vein using traditional surgery or laser treatment. 

Varicose vein treatment aims to remove the pain and discomfort, and improve the cosmetic appearance of the leg. The achievement of an improved cosmetic appearance may also require follow up minor treatment to remove any remaining lumps.

Varicose veins reoccur in about a third of patients after about ten years but they can be retreated.