Varicose Veins and Edema: The Connection Between Vein Problems and Leg Swelling

Medically reviewed by Thomas Alosco, MD, DABS, RPVI, RVT, DABVLM, on February 20, 2025

If you’ve noticed swelling in your legs and bulging veins just under your skin, you might wonder if these two issues are connected. Varicose veins and edema (leg swelling) often go hand in hand, and both can be signs of vein disease—a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the National Library of Health (NIH), 56 percent of men and 60 percent of women in the Western world experience the discomfort of varicose veins.

Did you know:

• According to the AHA Journal Circulation, approximately 23 percent of adults in the United States have varicose veins.
• Per the American Family Physician Journal (AFP) Peripheral Edema: Evaluation and Management in Primary Care, about 20 percent of adults over age 50 experience leg swelling, known as edema.
• A significant number of these cases are linked to venous insufficiency, also known as vein disease, where veins struggle to send blood back to the heart, leading to fluid buildup in the legs. Per AFP: “For patients with chronic bilateral lower-extremity edema, duplex ultrasonography with reflux can help diagnose chronic venous insufficiency.”

Understanding the connection between chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and edema is crucial for maintaining vascular health. Recognizing the signs and seeking appropriate treatment can prevent potential complications and improve your quality of life.

For this article, we spoke to Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) vein doctor Thomas Alosco, MD, DABS, RPVI, RVT, DABVLM. Dr. Alosco is a board-certified physician specializing in general surgery and venous and lymphatic medicine and the lead physician at CVR’s vein clinic in Waterbury, Connecticut.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Alosco, CLICK HERE

To schedule an appointment at any of Center for Vein Restoration’s other 110+ vein clinics, CLICK HERE

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that commonly appear on the legs. They develop when the tiny valves inside the veins stop working properly, causing blood to pool rather than flow efficiently back to the heart. This condition is known as venous insufficiency, the underlying cause of most vein problems.

The Center for Vein Restoration Difference

Vascular health is crucial to overall well-being. At Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), we offer comprehensive evaluations to identify the root causes of your leg pain related to vein issues. Our caring staff is committed to guiding you through every step of your treatment journey—from initial consultation to post-procedure care.

Reclaim your active lifestyle—contact us today to schedule your consultation!

Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.

CVR accepts many insurances, including Aetna, Amerigroup, Anthem, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, MultiPlan, Medicaid, Medicare, and more.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Several factors can increase your risk of developing varicose veins, including:

• Genetics – If your parents had varicose veins, you are more likely to develop them.
• Age – Veins lose elasticity as you age, making them more prone to damage.
• Prolonged sitting or standing – Jobs that require long hours on your feet or sitting at a desk can contribute to vein problems.
• Pregnancy – Increased blood volume and hormonal changes can weaken vein walls.
• Obesity – Excess weight puts added pressure on your veins.
• Lack of exercise – Physical activity promotes healthy circulation and reduces vein-related risks.

What Is Edema?

Edema refers to swelling caused by fluid buildup in the body’s tissues. It commonly affects the legs, ankles, and feet and can be linked to vein disease, heart conditions, kidney problems, and other underlying health issues.

What Causes Edema?

The most common causes of leg swelling include:

• Venous insufficiency – When blood pools in the veins instead of flowing properly, fluid leaks into surrounding tissues, leading to swelling.
• Lymphedema – A condition where the lymphatic system cannot drain fluid effectively, causing chronic swelling.
• Heart disease – Congestive heart failure can cause fluid retention in the legs.
• Kidney disease – The kidneys help regulate fluid balance; swelling can occur when they don’t function properly.
• Injury or infection – Trauma to the legs, inflammation, or infections can lead to swelling.

The Connection Between Varicose Veins and Edema

Varicose veins and edema often appear together because both result from poor circulation in the legs. When blood doesn't flow efficiently due to vein damage, it increases pressure within the veins, leading to fluid leakage and inflammation. Over time, chronic swelling can worsen vein problems, making it harder for your body to heal and leading to further complications.

Complications of Untreated Varicose Veins and Edema

Ignoring varicose veins and edema can lead to serious health issues, including:

• Skin changes – Persistent swelling and poor circulation can cause skin discoloration, itching, and thickening.
• Venous ulcers – Open sores may develop on the legs due to prolonged poor circulation.
• Blood clots – A condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can occur if blood pools and forms a clot in a deep vein, potentially leading to life-threatening complications.
• Infections – Swollen legs can be more prone to cellulitis, a painful skin infection.

Minimally Invasive Vein Treatments for a More Comfortable Life

Living with varicose veins and edema can significantly impact your quality of life. At CVR, we provide advanced, minimally invasive treatments that effectively address these conditions. Our experienced physicians are leaders in the field, ensuring you receive the best possible care.

Don't wait for symptoms to worsen—schedule your consultation now and start your journey to healthier legs!

How a Board-certified Vein Doctor Can Help

Consulting a vein specialist is essential if you have leg swelling or varicose veins. A vein doctor can assess your symptoms and recommend the best treatment options to improve circulation and reduce swelling.

Vein Treatment Options

The good news is that modern vein treatment options are minimally invasive, highly effective, and require little downtime. These include:

• Lifestyle changes – Regular exercise, weight management, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing can improve circulation.
• Compression therapy – Wearing compression stockings can help reduce swelling and support proper blood flow.
• Sclerotherapy: A minimally invasive procedure in which a medicine is injected into varicose veins to close them off.
• Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) – Heat-based treatments that seal off damaged veins, rerouting blood flow to healthier veins.
• Venaseal™ – A medical adhesive that closes off diseased veins permanently.

When to Seek Vein Treatment

If your varicose veins or leg swelling are causing discomfort, impacting your daily activities, or worsening over time, it's vital to visit a Center for Vein Restoration vein clinic for an evaluation NOW. The sooner you address vein problems, the better your chances of avoiding complications such as venous leg ulcers and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and improving your quality of life.

Trust the Nation’s Leading Vein Experts

At CVR, our physicians are leaders in the vein care industry, bringing unmatched expertise and experience to every patient we treat. We set the standard for vein care nationwide with over 70 board-certified vein specialists committed to providing you with the latest minimally invasive techniques.

Our vein care team is dedicated to improving your vascular health with cutting-edge technology and personalized treatment plans. Don’t settle for less—choose the best! Schedule your consultation today and experience the expertise of the nation’s top vein doctors!

Call 240-965-3915 to connect with a highly trained Patient Services Representative who can answer your questions and help you schedule an appointment at a CVR vein clinic near you.

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Take Control of Your Vein Health So Leg Problems Don’t Control You

Caring for your veins isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about preventing serious health issues. If you’re struggling with varicose veins or edema, don’t wait to seek medical advice.

Schedule an appointment with a CVR vein specialist to discuss your options and get back to feeling your best.

The first step toward better vascular health can help you feel more comfortable, confident, and energized. Don’t let varicose veins and edema hold you back—get the care you deserve today!