What to Do with a Bleeding Varicose Vein

Medically reviewed by Mark A. Edelman, MD, DABVLM, on October 6, 2025

Imagine relaxing at home or getting ready for bed when suddenly you notice blood running down your leg. You look closer and realize it’s coming from a varicose vein. The sight can be startling, and many people are surprised by how quickly the blood flows. Even though the opening on the skin looks small, the pressure inside the vein makes the bleeding seem much more dramatic.

If this has ever happened to you, know that you’re not alone. Bleeding is a known complication of varicose veins, and while it can be frightening, there are safe steps you can take right away to control it. Just as importantly, knowing how to follow up with a vein specialist will help you prevent it from happening again.

In this blog, Mark A. Edelman, MD, DABVLM, lead physician at CVR vein clinics in Norwalk, Connecticut, and Stamford, Connecticut, discusses how to recognize bleeding from varicose veins, the proper first-aid steps to take when bleeding occurs, when to seek medical help, and the modern treatments available to prevent future episodes.

👉 If you’ve experienced bleeding varicose veins or want to protect yourself from future problems, schedule a consultation with Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) to explore safe and effective treatment options. Call our Patient Services Representatives at 240-965-3915 or click below to access our ONLINE SCHEDULINE PORTAL.

✅To book a consultation with Dr. Edelman in Norwalk, CT, CLICK HERE.

✅To book a consultation with Dr. Edelman in Stamford, CT, CLICK HERE.

How to Recognize Bleeding from a Varicose Vein

Since leg bleeding can occur for various reasons, recognizing the signs of varicose vein bleeding is crucial. Bleeding varicose veins usually occur on the lower leg or ankle, where veins are close to the surface. Keep in mind that the skin in this area may already appear stretched, thin, or darkened due to other symptoms of vein disease.

If the vein breaks, the bleeding typically appears different than a small cut. Blood may come out quickly and sometimes in a steady stream rather than a slow trickle. Even a small opening can release a surprising amount of blood, since the vein is already under pressure. 

A good rule of thumb: If you have visible varicose veins and notice heavy bleeding after bumping or scratching your leg, there is a good chance the source is a vein rather than just the skin. Recognizing this quickly matters because you need to manage it differently from a simple scrape.

How to Stop Varicose Vein Bleeding at Home

If a varicose vein starts to bleed, remember to stay calm and act quickly. Make sure to take the following steps right away:

1. Elevate your leg: Sit or lie down and raise your leg above the level of your heart. This reduces the pressure inside the vein and slows the bleeding.
2. Apply firm pressure: Using a clean cloth, gauze pad, or even your hand, hold steady pressure on the bleeding spot.
3. Keep pressure until it stops: While it might seem tempting, don’t peek to see if the bleeding has stopped too soon. Hold pressure for at least 10 minutes and only release it when you’re sure the bleeding has slowed down.
4. Apply a secure bandage: Once the bleeding is under control, cover the area with a clean bandage to keep it well-protected.

IMPORTANT: Even if the bleeding stops, arrange a visit with a vein specialist to prevent another episode. Once a vein has bled, it becomes weaker and more susceptible to bleeding again, making timely treatment critical.

Bleeding Varicose Veins: Seeking Emergency Care

While some bleeding can be managed at home, there are times when you should seek immediate medical care. Call for emergency help if:

• The bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 to 15 minutes of firm pressure and leg elevation.
• The amount of blood is heavy enough to soak through dressings quickly.
• You feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint after the bleeding begins.
• You are on blood-thinning medication, which makes it harder for bleeding to stop.

Another note: Schedule a visit with a board-certified vein specialist once the bleeding is under control, as this may indicate fragile veins. The specialist can examine the area, identify other weak spots, and recommend treatments to strengthen your vein health. 

Are you experiencing varicose vein bleeding? Our experts can help. Call our Patient Services Representatives at 240-965-3915 or click the button below to book a consultation at a vein clinic near you.

Varicose Vein Bleeding: Potential Complications

It may be tempting to move on once the bleeding has stopped and resume your regular routine, but the risks are not over yet, and ignoring a bleeding vein can lead to several complications. Aside from an increased risk of future bleeding, potential complications include:

• Skin ulcers: Long-term vein disease can damage skin and lead to painful open sores that are slow to heal.
• Infection: An open wound creates a pathway for bacteria, which raises the risk of infection.
• Anemia: Frequent or heavy bleeding episodes can lower your blood count over time.

These risks highlight why follow-up care is so critical. Professional vein treatment targets the underlying problem and mitigates these risks, rather than just addressing the surface wound. 

Preventing Future Vein Bleeding: Professional Treatment Options

If a varicose vein has bled, you might be concerned about preventing it from happening again. The good news is that modern vein treatments are safe, minimally invasive, and highly effective. Common options include:

• Sclerotherapy: A solution is injected into the vein, causing it to close and fade away.
• Endovenous laser or radiofrequency treatment: Heat is used inside the vein to seal it shut permanently.
• Ambulatory phlebectomy: Tiny incisions remove the damaged vein directly.

These procedures are performed in an outpatient setting and usually take less than an hour. Recovery is quick, and most people return to normal activities within one to two days. These techniques not only reduce bleeding risks but also enhance the appearance and comfort of your legs by addressing the underlying issue of vein disease.

At CVR, our specialists offer the full range of modern varicose vein treatments. Each care plan is tailored to your specific needs, whether your goal is to prevent another bleeding episode, reduce leg pain, or restore confidence in your appearance.

CVR Helps Patients Move Forward with Better Vein Care

Bleeding from a varicose vein can be frightening, but it is also a sign that your veins need attention. Knowing how to control the bleeding, when to seek medical care, and how to prevent future problems is the key to staying safe. While home care and prevention can help, professional treatment is the most reliable way to keep your veins healthy long-term.

👉 Don’t wait for another emergency. Schedule a consultation with CVR today and take the first step toward lasting relief and peace of mind. Call our Patient Services Representatives at 240-965-3915 or click the button below to book a consultation at one of CVR’s 120+ nationwide vein clinics.