CEAP clinical score
February 19, 2026
Updated March 14, 2019
Common Varicose Vein Myths
As we are all settling down to spend time with our families over the festive period we thought we would lift the lid on a couple of vein related myths.
Surprisingly this is actually based on fact. There are very strong links with varicose veins running in families and the more relatives you have with varicose veins, the more likely you are to have them even if they are hidden varicose veins. However it is not simple genetics such as eye and hair colour where you can predict the outcome. People from non-varicose veins families can still be affected.
This statement is not only wrong on both counts but can also be dangerous in encouraging complacency.
There are people, around 10%, with thread veins and spider veins that have had a Duplex Ultrasound scan which shows that they do not have any underlying hidden varicose veins or venous reflux. Yes, for these lucky people, varicose veins are indeed just a cosmetic problem.
There are also people with very small green veins or very small varicose veins who, following their scan, who are shown to not have any underlying hidden varicose veins or venous reflux. So for these people, varicose veins are only a cosmetic problem.
However, for the majority – yes, the majority! – of patients who come to see us, a Duplex Ultrasound scan will find a more serious and hidden underlying varicose vein problem.
To put it simply, no, varicose veins cannot safely be left alone. Ideally you should have them treated before they become symptomatic. They will only deteriorate and cause further damage. For at least 3 – 6% of people these may go on to cause venous leg ulcers. For an even larger percentage of patients leaving veins untreated may lead to other symptoms such as skin damage, thrombophlebitis, venous eczema or swollen ankles
For more information, please visit our website. Alternatively, contact us using the contact form, email at [email protected] or call us on 01483 477180.
No1. Varicose Veins run in families
Surprisingly this is actually based on fact. There are very strong links with varicose veins running in families and the more relatives you have with varicose veins, the more likely you are to have them even if they are hidden varicose veins. However it is not simple genetics such as eye and hair colour where you can predict the outcome. People from non-varicose veins families can still be affected.
No 2.Varicose veins are only cosmetic and can safely be left alone
This statement is not only wrong on both counts but can also be dangerous in encouraging complacency.
There are people, around 10%, with thread veins and spider veins that have had a Duplex Ultrasound scan which shows that they do not have any underlying hidden varicose veins or venous reflux. Yes, for these lucky people, varicose veins are indeed just a cosmetic problem.
There are also people with very small green veins or very small varicose veins who, following their scan, who are shown to not have any underlying hidden varicose veins or venous reflux. So for these people, varicose veins are only a cosmetic problem.
However, for the majority – yes, the majority! – of patients who come to see us, a Duplex Ultrasound scan will find a more serious and hidden underlying varicose vein problem.
To put it simply, no, varicose veins cannot safely be left alone. Ideally you should have them treated before they become symptomatic. They will only deteriorate and cause further damage. For at least 3 – 6% of people these may go on to cause venous leg ulcers. For an even larger percentage of patients leaving veins untreated may lead to other symptoms such as skin damage, thrombophlebitis, venous eczema or swollen ankles
For more information, please visit our website. Alternatively, contact us using the contact form, email at [email protected] or call us on 01483 477180.
