A varicose vein is an enlarged, twisted vein that lies just under the skin, most commonly on the legs. It develops when one-way valves inside the vein stop working, allowing blood to pool instead of returning to the heart. In India, varicose veins affect 1 in 4 adults above 30 — and the numbers are rising due to long working hours, standing professions, obesity and heredity.
This guide is written by Dr. Ambrish Raja, senior consultant in vein intervention & ultrasonology, who has personally performed over 1,500 varicose-vein procedures. Whether you are reading because you have just noticed bulging veins, leg pain or skin discolouration, this page will give you the complete medically accurate picture.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
- Faulty venous valves — the root cause; valves no longer prevent backflow.
- Heredity — if a parent has them, your risk doubles.
- Prolonged standing or sitting — teachers, traffic police, surgeons, IT professionals are at high risk.
- Pregnancy — hormonal changes plus uterine pressure on pelvic veins.
- Obesity — extra weight increases venous pressure.
- Age — vein walls weaken naturally over time.
Symptoms — When To See a Vein Specialist
Many patients ignore early symptoms thinking they are normal "tired legs". Watch for:
- Visible bulging, blue or purple ropey veins
- Heaviness, aching or throbbing in the legs by evening
- Itching, burning or restless leg sensation
- Ankle swelling that improves overnight
- Skin darkening or eczema near the ankles
- Non-healing wound near the ankle (advanced stage)
Modern Treatment Options Available in India
Open surgery (vein stripping) is now obsolete. The current standard of care is image-guided minimally invasive treatment performed under local anaesthesia:
- Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA / EVLT) — gold standard; 95%+ success rate.
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) — heat-based, equivalent results to laser.
- MOCA (ClariVein) — non-thermal, ideal for veins close to nerves.
- VenaSeal medical glue — no compression stocking needed afterwards.
- Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy — for branches and smaller veins.
All these options are available at Dr. Raja's Vein Clinic with same-day discharge.
What Happens If Varicose Veins Are Left Untreated?
Untreated varicose veins progressively worsen. Possible complications include skin pigmentation, eczema, superficial thrombophlebitis, bleeding from a burst vein, and most seriously, venous ulcers that take months to heal. The earlier the treatment, the simpler and cheaper it is.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are varicose veins dangerous?
Most varicose veins are not immediately dangerous, but if untreated they can lead to skin ulcers, bleeding and a small risk of deep vein thrombosis. Early evaluation is always recommended.
Can varicose veins be cured permanently?
Modern treatments like EVLA, RFA, MOCA and glue close the diseased vein permanently. New veins can develop over years, but the treated vein never reopens. Lifestyle measures reduce recurrence.
How much does varicose vein treatment cost in India?
Cost varies by city and technique — typically ₹45,000 to ₹1,50,000 per leg. Many insurance policies in India cover it as a medical (not cosmetic) procedure when symptoms are documented.
Which doctor should I consult for varicose veins in India?
A vascular surgeon, phlebologist or interventional radiologist trained in vein intervention. Dr. Ambrish Raja in Bathinda is among the most experienced in North India for image-guided vein procedures.
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