You’ve probably seen them—those dark, twisting veins just under the surface of the skin. For some people, they’re painless. For others, they’re the start of something much more uncomfortable. The truth is, knowing when to be concerned about varicose veins can save you from bigger health issues down the road.

At Beltline Health, we see this all the time. Patients who waited because they thought it was just a cosmetic issue. Or they were embarrassed. Or they figured it would go away on its own. Spoiler: it doesn’t. But the good news? You can catch the signs early—and that’s where real prevention starts.

Let’s talk about what those signs are, what they mean, and when it’s time to get help.

What Are Varicose Veins—and Why Do They Happen?

Before we get into when to be concerned about varicose veins, let’s talk basics.

Varicose veins happen when the valves in your veins stop working well. Blood starts to pool in the veins instead of flowing back up toward your heart. That pressure makes veins stretch, swell, and twist. You usually see them in the legs, because gravity is working against blood flow there.

Why some people are more likely to get them:

• Family history
• Pregnancy
• Obesity
• Sitting or standing for long periods
• Aging

Not all varicose veins are dangerous—but some are warning signs of deeper vein problems.

When to Be Concerned About Varicose Veins: 6 Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

This is where a lot of people get stuck. The veins are there, but they’re not sure what counts as serious.

Here’s what to look for:

1. Pain or Aching in the Legs

A little soreness after a long day? Normal. But daily, throbbing pain or a heavy, tired feeling in your legs—especially if it gets worse by evening—that’s something to pay attention to.

This type of pain can mean that the veins aren’t just visible, they’re under real strain.

2. Swelling in the Ankles or Lower Legs

Mild swelling that comes and goes isn’t always a big deal. But consistent swelling, especially in just one leg, can point to a circulation problem. Your veins might not be moving blood effectively.

This is one of the biggest indicators we see at Beltline when deciding when to be concerned about varicose veins.

3. Skin Discoloration or Texture Changes

If the skin around your ankles or calves starts to look darker, reddish, or feel leathery or itchy, it could mean blood is leaking into nearby tissue. This is a red flag for chronic venous insufficiency, a more serious vein condition.

Left untreated, this can lead to ulcers.

4. Bleeding or Ulcers Around the Veins

This isn’t common—but it is urgent. Sometimes, the skin over varicose veins gets so thin that it breaks open or bleeds easily. If this happens, it needs medical attention fast.

It also means the veins are under pressure and possibly damaged beyond what lifestyle changes can help.

5. Restless Legs or Cramping at Night

Can’t sit still? Legs cramp or feel jittery in the evening? You’re not imagining it. These can be symptoms of poor circulation and early signs of deeper vein disease.

Don’t brush this off. It’s one of those weird-but-real signs that can help you spot a problem early.

6. A Sudden Increase in Vein Size or Number

Noticed that your veins are spreading? Getting darker or more raised? That kind of progression tells us something is changing—and not for the better.

If you’re seeing these shifts, it’s time to talk to someone.

What Can Happen If You Ignore Varicose Veins?

It’s not about being dramatic. It’s about being informed.

Ignoring serious varicose veins can lead to:

• Chronic swelling
• Skin damage and sores
• Deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot in a deep vein)
• Increased risk of infection

We don’t say this to scare you. We say it so you’ll know when to take the next step. Knowing when to be concerned about varicose veins helps you avoid these complications.

What Treatment Looks Like at Beltline

If you’ve hit that point where you’re concerned, here’s what to expect at our clinic:

Step 1: Honest conversation We’ll ask about your symptoms, history, and what’s been bothering you. No shame. No judgment.

Step 2: In-office ultrasound Quick, painless, and super helpful. This shows us how your blood is flowing and where the problems are.

Step 3: Real options If treatment is needed, we’ll walk you through your choices. From compression to in-office procedures like ablation or sclerotherapy. Nothing is done unless it makes sense for you.

And yes, insurance often covers vein treatment—especially when there are symptoms.

Final Thoughts: Trust What Your Body’s Telling You

When to be concerned about varicose veins comes down to listening to your body.

Are your legs hurting? Swelling? Changing in ways that don’t feel right? Don’t ignore that.

At Beltline Health, we’re here to make this easier. To give you straight answers. And to help you feel better—without the runaround.

Whether you’re in Atlanta, Newnan, or Stockbridge, you’ve got a team ready to help you figure out what’s going on and what to do next.

Don’t wait until it gets worse. Let’s get ahead of it—together.