Varicose veins are not usually a cause for concern, but several new treatments are available.

Varicose veins are not usually a cause for concern, but several new treatments are available.
Maybe you have varicose veins - large, twisted veins, clearly visible on the surface of the leg. They arise when the valves in the vein stop working properly. Varicose veins may look unsightly but are not usually a medical threat, say doctors at the Mayo Clinic.

If you have symptoms, like throbbing, cramping or swelling arising from your varicose veins, then do seek medical advice. Similarly, see your doctor if you're troubled by the appearance of varicose veins. Standard treatment used to be an operation where the veins were 'stripped out'. But this is far less common nowadays.

Instead there are many new, and less invasive, treatments. Using lasers, heat or injecting a solution that causes inflammation, which makes the veins close up, can all deal effectively with varicose veins. And if you're worried about developing the condition, be aware that the main risk factors are a family history, pregnancy, and a history of blood clots. Crossing your legs, standing, and obesity do not appear to increase the risk of varicose veins.

Source

Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource October 2002