Heaviness and Itching in Legs May Be More Than Fatigue: The Varicose Vein Warning

WISE NEWS PRESS / ISTANBUL, TURKEY — DEC 16, 2025

Varicose veins are often dismissed as merely an aesthetic issue, but experts warn they are a serious cardiovascular condition that significantly impacts quality of life. Symptoms such as a feeling of fullness, heaviness "as if filled with water," pain, itching, and cramps in the legs are frequently mistaken for simple fatigue, leading to dangerous neglect.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yusuf Kuserli from the Cardiovascular Surgery Department at Memorial Şişli Hospital highlights that autumn and winter are the preferred seasons for treatment, noting that modern medicine now offers non-surgical solutions like laser, radiofrequency, and tissue glue.

Listen to the Signals Your Legs Are Sending

Varicose veins occur when the veins in the legs enlarge and become twisted due to the failure of small valves that carry blood back to the heart. When these valves malfunction, blood flows backward and pools in the veins, creating the characteristic blue, bulging appearance.

"Our legs send us silent signals," says Dr. Kuserli. "We must pay attention to them before the condition worsens."

Obesity and Standing Jobs Increase Risk

Varicose veins are no longer just a condition of the elderly; they increasingly affect younger populations. Dr. Kuserli identifies specific risk groups:

• Occupational hazards: Teachers, hairdressers, and nurses who stand for long periods are at higher risk.

• Sedentary lifestyle: Those who sit at a desk all day or remain inactive are also vulnerable.

• Gender and Weight: The condition is more common in women due to pregnancy and hormonal changes. Obesity, a major modern health crisis, also significantly increases the risk.

Neglect Can Lead to Blood Clots

Dr. Kuserli warns that if the initial signs of fatigue are ignored, the condition can progress to swelling, night cramps, and skin discoloration.

"If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to skin ulcers that take months to heal or even the formation of clots, known as thrombophlebitis," Dr. Kuserli explains. While compression stockings and medication can help manage symptoms and slow progression, they do not eliminate the root problem.

Treatment in Just 30 Minutes

Thanks to advancing technology, open surgery is rarely needed. Dr. Kuserli outlines the modern, catheter-based treatments that allow patients to be discharged on the same day:

• Laser and Radiofrequency: A thin wire is inserted into the vein, and heat is used to close the problematic vessel.

• Tissue Glue (Venous Adhesive): The vein is sealed with a special medical glue. Since no heat is used, pain is minimal.

These procedures are performed under local anesthesia and typically take only about 30 minutes.

"Don't Wait for It to Pass"

Emphasizing that varicose veins do not cure themselves, Dr. Kuserli offers the following advice to prevent the condition or slow its progress:

• Take short walks if you stand for long periods during the day.

• If you work at a desk, get up and move every 30 minutes.

• Rest your legs by elevating them above heart level.

• Avoid excessive weight gain.

• Engage in regular walking, cycling, or swimming, which are the best exercises for vascular health.

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