What happens if varicose veins are not treated?

Varicose veins form when valves in leg veins do not move blood efficiently back towards the heart. Pressure can build in the lower leg, causing aching, heaviness, itching and swollen ankles, often worse after standing. Persistent pressure may make the skin dry, darker or inflamed; this type of inflammation is called stasis dermatitis. The skin can become fragile, and a small injury may heal slowly. A superficial vein can also become painful and firm, or a vein may bleed after minor trauma.

Arrange a GP consultation if discomfort, swelling or skin changes are persistent, or if symptoms limit walking or standing. The clinician can examine circulation, check the skin and decide whether further assessment is appropriate. Advice may include movement, leg elevation, skin care and avoiding long uninterrupted periods of standing or sitting. Sclerotherapy is one possible treatment for selected veins; suitability depends on the vein pattern and your circulation.

Seek urgent help for sudden one-sided leg swelling, severe new pain, a hot or red leg, chest pain, breathlessness, coughing blood or bleeding from a vein that does not stop with firm pressure. A new open sore, spreading skin redness or rapidly worsening swelling also needs prompt assessment.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest another circulation problem, how to protect the skin, whether a scan or procedure is appropriate, and which changes should trigger urgent review.