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What Are Varicose Veins?
Medically verified
Last updated on 1/30/2026
By Dr. Michael Nguyen
Vein Doctor at Vein Treatment Clinic
Harvard Medical School
Board Certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that most commonly appear in the legs. In simple terms, a varicose vein is a vein that has become stretched and widened because blood is not flowing properly back toward the heart. They often look blue or purple and may bulge above the surface of the skin.
Varicose veins are considered a form of chronic venous disease. While some people notice them only because of their appearance, others experience symptoms such as aching, heaviness, swelling, or fatigue in the legs.
Understanding what varicose veins are and why they form helps patients decide when monitoring is appropriate and when evaluation or treatment may be helpful.
If you’re unsure whether your veins are truly varicose veins or something else, a vein evaluation can help clarify what’s happening.
What exactly are varicose veins?
Over time, the increased pressure stretches the vein walls, making the vein wider, twisted, and more visible.
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Varicose Vein before and after treatment pictures.
Results may vary according to each case.
Varicose Vein before and after treatment pictures.
Results may vary according to each case.
Why do varicose veins usually appear in the legs?
Prolonged standing or sitting, pregnancy, and aging increase strain on leg veins and contribute to varicose vein formation.
How are varicose veins different from normal veins?
Normal veins have one-way valves that keep blood moving toward the heart. Varicose veins develop when these valves weaken or stop closing properly.
As a result, blood flows backward and collects in the vein, causing enlargement and distortion.
When should you worry? See the Warning Signs of Dangerous Veins
What do varicose veins look like?
Varicose veins often appear as bulging, rope-like veins that are blue or purple in color and raised above the skin.
The appearance can range from mildly enlarged veins to prominent, twisted veins, depending on severity.
See examples of varicose veins in our before-and-after gallery
Symptom Checker
Are varicose veins the same as spider veins?
No. Varicose veins are larger than spider veins, which are small surface veins that form red or blue web-like patterns. Varicose Veins can look like “worms” underneath the skin.
While spider veins are often cosmetic, varicose veins are more likely to be associated with underlying circulation problems.
Do varicose veins always cause symptoms?
Before
After
A 37-year-old patient visited our Vein Treatment Clinic, seeking relief from unsightly and painful varicose and spider veins. We performed radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy treatments, significantly improving the veins’ appearance and completely eliminating discomfort. The patient is now enjoying a more active and pain-free lifestyle.
Before
After
A 69 year-old patient visited our California Vein Clinic, embarrassed by spider veins that had impacted their self-esteem. We performed radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy treatments, leaving their legs smooth and healthy. The patient now feels more confident, thanks to this transformative treatment.
Before
After
This 84 year-old patient at our New Jersey Vein Treatment Clinic came in with spider veins that had affected their daily routine. We used radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy treatments to relieve discomfort and restore both their leg health and confidence. The patient now enjoys a more active and fulfilling lifestyle, free from pain.
Before
After
At our Long Island Vein Clinic, we treated this 75 year-old patient with spider veins using radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy. These minimally invasive treatments improved both the patient’s appearance and overall well-being, offering transformative results.
Before
After
This 75 year-old patient visited our Long Island Vein Treatment Clinic with painful spider veins. We used radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy, minimally invasive treatments, to eliminate the veins and restore comfort and confidence. The patient experienced life-changing results
Are varicose veins a medical condition or cosmetic issue?
Varicose veins can be cosmetic, medical, or both. Symptoms and underlying venous insufficiency often determine medical significance.
A vein evaluation helps clarify whether treatment is recommended for health reasons or appearance alone.
Can varicose veins be prevented?
Some risk factors, such as genetics, cannot be changed. Regular movement, such as walking, leg elevation, and avoiding prolonged standing, may help reduce progression.
These measures may ease symptoms, but do not reverse valve damage once it has occurred.