Varicose and Spider Veins: Assessment and Treatment

Varicose veins are enlarged superficial veins, while spider veins are smaller visible vessels. Their causes, symptoms and clinical importance differ, so treatment should follow an appropriate vascular assessment rather than appearance alone.

Assessment and warning signs

Assessment may include symptoms, examination and duplex ultrasound when venous reflux or another vascular problem is suspected. Seek urgent medical care for sudden leg swelling or pain, chest pain, breathlessness, significant bleeding or a hot, painful leg with skin change.

Treatment options

Depending on findings, options may include advice and monitoring, compression for selected indications, sclerotherapy, endovenous thermal or non-thermal treatment, phlebectomy or surgery. Spider-vein treatment may be cosmetic and does not treat deeper venous disease unless that is separately assessed.

Risks and limitations

Risks vary by method and can include pain, bruising, pigmentation, inflammation, skin injury, nerve symptoms, infection, blood clots, recurrence, incomplete clearance and further treatment. No technique guarantees permanent removal or a fixed recovery.

Read the NHS varicose veins guide, then review Revitalize’s vein treatment information and assessment route.