Last updated on March 13, 2026
Varicose veins are one of the most common vascular conditions in Australia, and at Vein Doctors Sydney, we regularly see patients who are concerned about the appearance or symptoms of these enlarged veins. If you’ve noticed bulging or twisted veins on your legs, it’s natural to wonder what’s causing them, whether they’re something to worry about and what can be done to treat them.
In this article, we answer some of the most common varicose vein questions, including why they develop, the symptoms to watch for and the treatment options available to help improve both your comfort and vein health.
The Number One Question We Get Asked: “Why Do I Have Varicose Veins?”
Without a doubt, this is the question that comes up most often. Many patients want to understand why their veins have started bulging or becoming more visible, especially when they feel like they’ve done nothing differently.
Varicose veins develop when the one-way valves inside your veins stop working properly. These valves are designed to keep blood flowing in one direction, back toward the heart. When they weaken or become damaged, blood can pool in the vein, causing it to swell, stretch and become visible beneath the skin.
Several factors can increase your likelihood of developing varicose veins:
- Genetics: If your parents or close family members have varicose veins, you’re more likely to develop them too.
- Age: Vein walls and valves naturally weaken over time, which is why varicose veins become more common as you get older.
- Prolonged standing or sitting: Jobs that require long hours on your feet or sitting at a desk can put extra pressure on the veins in your legs and slow circulation.
- Pregnancy: Increased blood volume and hormonal changes during pregnancy place additional strain on the venous system, particularly in the legs and pelvis.
- Weight: Carrying excess weight increases pressure on the veins in your lower body, making it harder for blood to flow back to the heart efficiently.
- Hormonal changes: Oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy can weaken the walls of your veins, making them more susceptible to damage over time.
“Should I Actually Be Worried About My Varicose Veins?”
This is the second most common question we hear, and it’s an important one. For most people, varicose veins don’t usually cause concern in the early stages, but that doesn’t mean they should be ignored. Left untreated, they can progress and lead to more serious complications over time.
In the early stages, varicose veins are often associated with symptoms such as aching, heaviness and swelling in the legs, particularly after long periods of standing. These symptoms can affect your quality of life, but don’t pose a significant health risk.
However, as the condition progresses, varicose veins can lead to:
Skin changes
The skin around the affected veins can become discoloured, dry or itchy. Over time, this can develop into a condition called lipodermatosclerosis, where the skin becomes hardened and inflamed.
Venous ulcers
In more advanced cases, poor circulation due to damaged veins can lead to open sores, often around the ankle.
Superficial thrombophlebitis
Varicose veins can sometimes form blood clots near the skin’s surface, leading to pain, redness and inflammation along the affected vein.
Bleeding
As varicose veins sit so close to the surface of the skin, even a minor knock or injury can cause them to bleed, and the bleeding can sometimes be difficult to stop.
The important thing to understand is that varicose veins tend to get worse over time, not better. What begins as a cosmetic issue can, if left untreated, gradually develop into something more serious. If you’re experiencing symptoms or noticing changes in your veins, it’s worth seeing a vascular specialist sooner rather than later.
Practical steps you can take to support your vein health include staying active, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting.
"Is There Anything I Can Do to Stop My Varicose Veins From Getting Worse?"
We hear this a lot, particularly from patients who have a family history of varicose veins. There’s no guaranteed way to prevent varicose veins entirely, especially if genetics or other risk factors are at play. However, there are practical steps you can take to support your vein health.
Stay active
Regular exercise, particularly walking, swimming and cycling, helps keep blood circulating through your legs and strengthens the muscles that support your veins.
Avoid prolonged standing or sitting
If your job requires long periods in one position, try to take regular breaks to move around. Even small movements like flexing your calves or shifting your weight can help.
Maintain a healthy weight
Reducing excess pressure on the veins in your lower body can ease the strain on your venous system and help prevent further valve damage.
Elevate your legs
Putting your feet up when you’re resting helps encourage blood to flow back toward the heart and reduces pooling in your lower legs.
Wear compression stockings
Compression stockings can help support healthy circulation and ease symptoms, particularly if you’re at higher risk or have already noticed early signs of varicose veins.
"What Does Treatment for Varicose Veins Actually Involve?"
Many patients come in expecting to hear about major surgery, and they’re often relieved to learn that modern varicose vein treatments have come a long way. Most procedures are minimally invasive, performed in a clinic setting and require little to no downtime.
The most common treatment options include:
Endovenous laser ablation (EVA)
A thin laser fibre is guided into the affected vein using ultrasound imaging. Once in place, the laser gently heats the vein wall, causing it to collapse and seal closed. Blood is then naturally redirected into healthier nearby veins, helping to relieve symptoms of venous insufficiency.
Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy
A specially formulated solution is injected into the varicose vein, causing the walls to collapse and seal together. This is commonly used for veins that aren’t suited to laser treatment, or as a secondary procedure to treat any remaining veins.
A procedure in which larger, bulging veins near the surface are removed through tiny skin incisions. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic and typically leaves minimal scarring.
Medical vein glue treatment (VenaSeal)
A medical-grade adhesive is used to seal the affected vein from the inside. This procedure doesn’t require tumescent anaesthesia, and most patients experience very little discomfort during the procedure.
Your specialist will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on the size, location and severity of your varicose veins. In many cases, a combination of treatments may be used to achieve the best results.
Varicose vein symptoms typically start to improve within the first one to two weeks after treatment.
"How Long Until I See a Difference in My Varicose Veins?”
Most patients start to feel a difference within the first week or two after treatment. Symptoms like heaviness, aching and swelling tend to ease fairly quickly, often well before the treated veins have faded from view.
Visible results, however, tend to take a little longer. Depending on the type of treatment and the size of the veins, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for them to fully disappear.
While it depends on each individual, follow-up treatments may be needed. Some patients may require a second session of sclerotherapy or additional treatment for smaller veins.
How to Book an Appointment
At Vein Doctors Sydney, we are committed to providing personalised and compassionate care for patients seeking treatment for varicose veins. For more information on our services or to schedule a consultation at our clinic, please contact our friendly staff by either calling us on (02) 9023 9970, via our online form or by sending us an email.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes varicose veins?
Varicose veins are caused by weakened or damaged valves inside the veins. When these valves stop working properly, blood pools in the vein, causing it to swell and become visible. Factors like genetics, age, prolonged standing, pregnancy and excess weight can all increase your risk.
Are varicose veins dangerous?
Varicose veins are not usually dangerous in the early stages, but they are a progressive condition. Without treatment, they can lead to complications including skin changes, venous ulcers, superficial blood clots and bleeding. If you’re experiencing symptoms, it’s a good idea to have them assessed.
Can I prevent varicose veins?
There’s no guaranteed way to prevent them, particularly if you have a family history. However, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding long periods of standing or sitting and wearing compression stockings can all help reduce your risk and manage symptoms.
Are treatments covered by Medicare or private health insurance?
If your varicose veins are causing symptoms or complications, treatment is generally considered medically necessary, and you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate. Private health insurance may also cover part of the cost, depending on your level of cover and the procedure involved. A consultation and ultrasound assessment is the best way to determine what you’re eligible for.
How soon will I see results after treatment?
Most patients notice symptom relief within the first week or two. Cosmetic improvement takes longer, with treated veins typically fading over several weeks to months. Follow-up treatments may be needed for smaller veins.
This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.
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