Why do I get leg swelling with varicose veins?

Swelling in the legs—especially by the end of the day—is a common sign of venous insufficiency. Discover why this happens, when it’s a concern, and how expert care can reduce your symptoms.

Why do I get leg swelling with varicose veins?

Leg swelling due to varicose veins is a common symptom of venous insufficiency. In healthy veins, the one-way valves inside the veins prevent blood from pooling in the legs. However, in venous insufficiency, as these valves fail to close properly, there is increased pressure inside the veins and backward flow of the blood into the legs. 

This backward flow, which is called venous reflux, increases the pressure within the veins in the legs and results in fluid leakage into the surrounding tissue, causing leg swelling. Swelling often occurs at the end of the day or after prolonged sitting or standing. It is worse during the warm weather and is very noticeable after long flights, during which typically individuals have reduced leg movement. this especially important in cities like Dubai. 

It can be accompanied by a feeling of heaviness, aching, and tightness in the calves or ankles. Over time, the skin swelling due to venous insufficiency can cause skin changes, discolouration, and in severe cases, venous ulcers. 

Compression therapy, leg elevation, and regular movement are established conservative measures for managing leg swelling caused by venous insufficiency. In individuals who have not responded to these approaches, or who have undergone unsuccessful conservative treatments, further medical treatments for varicose veins in Dubai options may be required. medical treatments such as endovenous laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, ClariVein® or VenaSeal® performed by a vascular surgeon or a vein specialist can provide treatment. 

Read on what are the causes of leg spider veins and when the options for leg spider vein treatments in Dubai.