What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are dilated, twisted veins that appear mainly in the legs and feet. They happen when the valves inside the veins stop working properly, so blood accumulates instead of flowing back to the heart.
It is a very common condition, especially among women, and it ranges from mild (mainly a cosmetic concern) to severe (with complications such as ulcers and thrombosis).
Common symptoms
- Aching in the legs, especially at the end of the day
- A feeling of heaviness or tiredness in the legs
- Swelling (oedema) in the ankles and feet
- Muscle cramps, especially at night
- Visible, dilated veins (blue or purple)
- Itching or burning in the affected area
- Dark patches on the skin (in advanced cases)
How we diagnose it
The diagnosis is made mainly through the clinical examination (looking at the veins), supported by colour Doppler ultrasound, which evaluates how the valves are working and identifies venous reflux. It is a painless, non-invasive examination done at the clinic.
Treatment options
Clinical treatment
Compression stockings, leg elevation, physical activity and posture care.
Sclerotherapy
A substance is injected to close the affected veins. Used for small veins and spider veins.
Medication
Venoactive medication to improve venous tone and reduce symptoms.
Conventional surgery
Removal of the compromised saphenous veins. Indicated in more advanced cases.
Endovascular treatment (laser / radiofrequency)
Minimally invasive technique that closes the vein using heat. Faster recovery.
Ambulatory surgery
Smaller procedures under local anaesthesia, with same-day discharge.
When to seek help
See a specialist if you have:
- Painful varicose veins, or veins that are growing quickly
- Persistent swelling in one leg
- A change in skin colour near the ankles
- A leg ulcer that does not heal
- Bleeding from a varicose vein
- A family history of thrombosis
Practical guide
Preparing for varicose vein surgery? The guide to preparing for varicose vein surgery covers everything from the day before the procedure to the post-operative period.
Coming from abroad? Read how treatment in Brazil works — the consultation, the Doppler, the estimate and what to expect in São Paulo.