Aching Legs Could Mean Varicose Veins

Feelings of having achy, heavy tired legs are possible signs of having varicose veins. 

Varicose veins are not just a cosmetic issue – in fact, they may not be a cosmetic problem at all – as some patients suffer from ‘hidden varicose veins’.

Approximately 2 in every 5 adults will experience ‘superficial valve failure’ which is a condition whereby the blood flow becomes inefficient. Of these around half will experience the visible symptoms of classic varicose veins – lumpy purple/blue and twisted-looking veins on the legs. The other half will experience ‘hidden varicose veins’ which means that the veins are not working properly so that the blood flow is inefficient.

As blood is not pumped back out of the legs, it will pool in the veins. Although you may not be able to see ugly veins on the outside, on the inside, they can feel very uncomfortable with characteristic heavy and aching symptoms.

Over time, these incompetent or insufficient veins tend to get worse, as the pressure of blood pooling in the veins makes the valves become even less efficient. Therefore as symptoms progress, it may be that the visual symptoms start to be noticeable too with enlarged, lumpy discoloured veins starting to show.

Varicose veins simply don’t get better by themselves, so early diagnosis and treatment are recommended to avoid the discomfort that tends to get worse.

Diagnosing Hidden Varicose Veins

If you have heavy/aching legs and suspect varicose veins – especially if they run in the family – then it may be sensible to investigate.

The only way of properly diagnosing hidden varicose veins is with a scan to see beneath the surface of the skin.

The London Vein Treatment Centre offer a duplex ultrasound scan which gives doctors and surgeons a real insight into the way blood flows within the veins, including the speed and direction of flow.

Varicose Vein Removal Treatments

We offer a range of varicose vein treatments using the latest laser and surgical techniques, all carried out by our experienced Vascular Surgeon on a ‘walk in walk out’ basis with no overnight stay and no general anaesthetic:

• EVLA (endovenous laser ablation) treatment offers a 95% success rate. Cosmedics Skin Clinics offer EVLA treatment at their London vein treatment centre with a renowned vascular surgeon. Prices start at £1,650 per leg (1 vein)
• ClariVein® is a treatment which combines a mechanical with a chemical action to seal
• Foam sclerotherapy an injectable treatment for smaller varicose veins or larger thread veins
• Micro surgery for physical, surgical removal of the affected vein where necessary

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7386 0464.