What you may notice
Bulging or twisted veins may accompany aching, heaviness, ankle swelling or itching, often after prolonged standing. Skin near the ankle may become dry, discoloured or inflamed. Visible veins alone do not show how severe the underlying problem is.
Veins return blood
Calf muscles support return flow
What could cause it?
Leaking vein valves can let blood pool in the leg. Swelling or pain may also come from a clot, skin infection, lymphatic swelling, medicines, or heart or kidney disease. Joint and nerve pain can coexist. Examination and a venous ultrasound can check for reflux or obstruction when appropriate.
When to contact a doctor
Seek assessment for troublesome aching, persistent swelling, skin changes or a wound. New one-sided swelling or a tender red vein needs urgent review. If a vein bleeds, lie down, raise the leg if possible and apply firm direct pressure. Heavy or continuing bleeding, faintness, chest pain or breathlessness requires emergency care; call 108.
How interventional radiology may help
Movement, weight management when appropriate and correctly prescribed compression may ease symptoms. For confirmed symptomatic reflux, IR can offer suitable vein ablation or injection treatment; surgery is another option. Compression should be fitted after assessing circulation. No procedure is selected solely from the appearance of a vein.
Further reading: detailed assessment and treatment options
Patient information sources
References are in English.
Educational information, not a diagnosis. The causes listed are examples, not a complete list. Tests and treatment depend on your individual assessment.