What are blue and purple ankle veins?

 What are blue and purple ankle veins?

Blue and purple veins around the ankles can be seen as small, visible, superficial veins close to the surface of the skin. These veins can often result from increased pressure inside the leg veins and often are associated with underlying venous insufficiency and varicose vein disease. While they may appear to be a minor cosmetic issue, these veins can indicate impaired blood flow in the leg veins. When blood does not circulate efficiently in the leg veins, it begins to pool, especially around the ankle area due to the effect of gravity. This pooling increases the venous pressure and can cause small veins to become dilated and visible as blue or purple veins around the ankle. This condition is referred to as Corona Phlebectatica and is considered an early warning sign of venous insufficiency.

Many patients also report other symptoms such as leg swelling, heaviness, skin changes such as discolouration or darkening around the ankles. It often occurs prior to other advanced skin conditions such as lipodermatosclerosis and skin ulcers due to venous insufficiency. 

Conservative management includes compression socks to support venous return and reducing the venous pressure, lifestyle modifications such as frequent leg elevation, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, physical activity and weight management can also help. 

Minimally invasive vein treatments in Dubai such as endovenous laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation may also be recommended following an assessment with Doppler ultrasound. 

Consulting a vascular surgeon or vein specialist in Dubai can help confirm the diagnosis and provide an appropriate treatment plan to address both cosmetic and health concerns.