Does a GP consultation treat varicose veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins, usually in the legs, caused by blood pooling in veins that do not move blood back efficiently. A GP may ask about aching, heaviness, itching, swelling, skin colour changes and whether symptoms worsen after standing. They can examine the legs, check pulses and consider whether an ultrasound or specialist assessment is needed. Management may include movement, leg elevation, skin care and symptom support. If veins cause significant symptoms, skin problems or an ulcer, referral may be appropriate; procedures are selected after assessment.

Keep gently active, avoid standing or sitting still for long periods, and raise your legs when resting if this eases discomfort. Protect dry or itchy skin with a suitable moisturiser and avoid scratching. Ask a clinician before using compression stockings, particularly if you have circulation problems, numbness or leg pain on walking, because the right fit and pressure matter. Bring a list of medicines and describe how symptoms affect work, sleep and walking. A GP can explain whether monitoring, testing or referral is the next step. Read more about [Varicose Veins](/conditions/varicose-veins/) and [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/).

Seek urgent advice if a vein becomes suddenly painful, hard, red or warm, or if one leg becomes newly swollen. Get emergency help for sudden breathlessness, chest pain or coughing blood, which can occur with a clot travelling to the lungs. Contact a GP promptly for bleeding from a varicose vein, a non-healing sore, or skin that is becoming darker, inflamed or broken. These changes need assessment rather than home care alone.

Ask: Do my symptoms need an ultrasound? Would compression be safe for me? How should I care for the skin? What signs suggest a clot or ulcer? Would referral to a vascular service help?