Varicose veins in lower limbs - Chronic venous insufficiency

Very low urgency
Common-

It is the dilation and accumulation of blood in the veins of the legs. It is most common in women above 60 years old.

Causes include defective congenital defects in the valves, thrombophlebitis or blood clots that swell up the veins, and pregnancy.

The most common set of symptoms is heavy legs, appearance of visible veins, swelling and leg pain.

Diagnosis is reached by reviewing the patient's clinical history and a physical examination.

The treatment aims to relieve symptoms and prevent their progression. It includes physical intervention, medication and, in more severe cases, a small surgical procedure.

Bibliographic references
  1. Patrick C Alguire, Sherry Scovell. Overview and management of lower extremity chronic venous disease. UpToDate. Jul 27, 2016.
  2. Gloviczki P, Comerota AJ, Dalsing MC, et al. The care of patients with varicose veins and associated chronic venous diseases: clinical practice guidelines of the Society for Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum. J Vasc Surg 2011; 53:2S.
  3. Wittens C, Davies AH, Bækgaard N, et al. Editor's Choice - Management of Chronic Venous Disease: Clinical Practice Guidelines of the European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS). Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2015; 49:678.
  4. O'Donnell TF Jr, Passman MA. Clinical practice guidelines of the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) and the American Venous Forum (AVF)--Management of venous leg ulcers. Introduction. J Vasc Surg 2014; 60:1S.
  5. Zahariev T, Anastassov V, Girov K, et al. Prevalence of primary chronic venous disease: the Bulgarian experience. Int Angiol 2009; 28:303.
Author
Dr. Elvira Moreno
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    History of dilated veins in the legs - varicose veins


    Darker skin on the legs


    Leg sore


    Tired legs


    Cramps in the calves

Symptoms to watch out for

Sensation of heaviness on the legs
Pain and reddening of the calf
Enlargement of the limb with varicose veins
Fever (temperature higher than 38 ºC)
Bleeding in the varicose area

Self-care

Elevate your legs when sitting or lying down 3 to 4 times a day for 30 minutes.
Use silicone bands or compression tights.
Engage in regular physical activity, adapted to age and physical condition, at least 3 times a week.
Apply cold compresses 3 times a day for 20 minutes to reduce the symptoms.
Avoid prolonged standing.