Your Guide to Varicose Veins in the Feet
Medically reviewed by Vinit S. Shah, DO, on July 08, 2024
Varicose veins are swollen, bulging, and often painful veins just under the surface of the skin that cause legs to ache, itch, and feel heavy. Although usually associated with the legs, problem veins can occur anywhere in the body, including the ankles and feet.
For instance, varicose veins that develop in the rectum are referred to as hemorrhoids. Enlarged varicose veins in the scrotum are known as varicoceles, and painful veins of the female vulva are called vulvar varicosities. In a medical context, abnormally dilated blue and red veins of the feet and ankles are known as corona phlebectatica, per the Journal of Vascular Surgery.
For this article, we consulted with Dr. Vinit S. Shah, lead vein physician in Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) vein clinics in Edison, New Jersey, East Brunswick, New Jersey, and Freehold, New Jersey. Dr. Shah has a wealth of experience in critical care medicine and is highly skilled in performing venous treatment using ultrasound technology. He has successfully completed thousands of vein procedures, bringing relief and restoring well-being to countless people.
In addition to English, Dr. Shah is fluent in Gujarati and has a good understanding of Hindi and Punjabi.
What are swollen veins in the feet?
Let's break down the medical terms. 'Corona' is a term that originally describes the fan-like rays extending from the sun's surface. In a medical context, it refers to the similar fan-shaped arrangement of spider veins found on the inner part of the foot. 'Phlebectasia' refers to the presence of abnormal veins and capillaries. So, when combined, these terms describe a vein condition with a fan-like spread of abnormal capillaries on the feet.
What causes varicose veins in the feet?
While not as common as problem leg veins, varicose veins in the feet can be just as painful and unsightly as veins in the legs. But what causes bulging, twisted veins in the feet? Just like their cousins—varicose veins in the legs—varicose veins on the feet are a result of a condition known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).
Corona phlebectatica is a form of venous disease (that is, any disease affecting the veins that carry blood back to your heart). It happens when the one-way valves in veins become damaged or weakened, allowing blood to flow backward and pool. This pooling puts increased pressure on the vein walls, causing them to bulge outwards.
The veins in our feet have to work mightily against gravity to pump blood back up to the heart, so they are particularly susceptible to this valve failure, blood pooling, and characteristic foot swelling that worsens through the day.
Some key risk factors that can contribute to varicose veins in the feet include:
- Being overweight or obese
- Pregnancy
- Advanced age
- Genetics/family history
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Wearing high heels frequently
Symptoms of Varicose Veins in Feet
The primary symptom is the visible, enlarged, twisted veins on the top of the foot or around the ankles. Other symptoms can include:
- Aching, heaviness, or fatigue in the feet and legs
- Swollen feet and ankles, especially at night
- Throbbing or burning sensations
- Itchy, discolored skin over the affected veins
- Restless legs and cramping
Complications problem veins of the feet if left untreated
While varicose veins start as a cosmetic issue, they can lead to more serious complications if left untreated, such as:
- Venous eczema (skin irritation and discoloration)
- Thrombophlebitis (inflammation of the vein)
- Venous ulcers (open, slow to heal, or non-healing sores)
- Deep vein thrombosis (dangerous blood clots)
How to prevent varicose veins on the feet
There are several preventive measures you can take to avoid developing varicose veins in the feet:
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise, especially activities that work the calf muscles, such as walking, running, or cycling, can improve blood circulation in the legs and feet, reducing the risk of varicose veins.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight increases the pressure on the veins in the legs and feet, making it harder for blood to circulate properly and increasing the risk of varicose veins.
Elevate Your Legs
When sitting or lying down, elevate your legs above the level of your heart to improve blood flow and reduce blood pooling in the veins of your legs and feet.
Wear Compression Stockings
Compression stockings or socks can help prevent blood from pooling in the veins of the legs and feet by providing gentle pressure to improve circulation.
Avoid Prolonged Standing or Sitting
Remaining in the same position for too long can impair blood flow and increase pressure on the veins. Take regular breaks to walk around or do calf exercises.
Wear Proper Footwear
Avoid wearing high heels frequently, as they reduce muscle pump function and can impair circulation in the legs and feet. Choose low-heeled or flat shoes instead.
Quit Smoking
Smoking can contribute to the development of varicose veins by impairing circulation and damaging vein walls.
By following these preventive measures, you can reduce your risk of developing unsightly and potentially painful varicose veins in your feet.
Treatment options
If enlarged foot veins have become problematic, there are several effective treatment options. Today’s state-of-the-art vein procedures offered at all Center for Vein Restoration vein clinic locations are performed as an outpatient, are minimally invasive, and allow patients to drive themselves home and resume normal activities immediately with few restrictions.
Some common modern treatment options include:
Endovenous ablation: Heat collapses and seals the damaged vein using laser or radiofrequency energy. Blood then flows through healthier nearby veins.
Sclerotherapy: Injecting a solution into the vein to scar and close it off, forcing blood to reroute through healthier veins.
Varithena: A newer procedure that uses microfoam to collapse and remove the damaged vein.
Ambulatory phlebectomy: This involves surgical removal of larger varicose veins through tiny incisions. Many vein specialists recommend a combination of these treatments tailored to the patient's specific condition and anatomy.
As America's largest physician-led vein center, Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) is the nationally recognized leader in treating varicose and spider veins. With more than 110 vein centers across the United States, CVR offers comprehensive and state-of-the-art treatment for venous disorders and boasts a 98% patient satisfaction rating.
CVR accepts many insurances, including Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and Medicare.
Call 240-965-3915 to speak with a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR vein clinic near you.
When to seek treatment for veins of the feet
While often viewed as just a cosmetic issue, varicose veins are often a medical condition that can lead to greater health problems if ignored. Don't wait until complications such as venous ulcers and DVT arise—seek treatment for varicose veins in your feet as soon as possible.
If you have visible, bulging veins on your feet or any of the symptoms listed above, it's critical to consult with a board-certified vein specialist. These vein specialists can expertly evaluate your vein condition, discuss your treatment options, and develop a personalized plan to eliminate your varicose veins and restore healthy circulation.