Track Your Risk

The veins in our legs are responsible for returning deoxygenated blood back to the heart after the arteries carry blood out, so it is important they are healthy. But it’s difficult to know what’s normal and what you should discuss with your GP.

Professor Mark Whitely, a vascular surgeon, has devised a simple guide for the 30% of people in the UK who suffer from varicose veins. If you notice any of the below symptoms, talk to your GP:

V– Veins which are visible on the surface of the skin

E– Enlarged veins that are blue or dark purple

I– Itchy, sore or dry skin over your veins

N– Nodular, bulging or twisted veins

S– Swollen, achy or heavy legs and ankles