While compression socks can improve circulation in your legs, you will likely need to wear them all day to see any noticeable results. Replace your compression stockings every 3 to 6 months. Compression socks are not guaranteed to prevent varicose veins from getting worse or prevent new varicose veins from appearing, but they will improve your circulation. [2] X Expert Source Mohiba Tareen, MDFAAD Board Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.

If you’re having trouble losing weight, talk to your doctor.

Sitting for too long puts pressure on your veins, which can make your varicose veins worse.

If you can’t sit down, try taking a quick walk or propping your feet up on a stool one at a time.

Place your feet on a stool or another chair, when possible, to improve the circulation in your legs.

No anesthesia is needed, but you may need multiple treatments for the same vein. If you’ve had a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the past, you may not be eligible for this procedure. Sclerotherapy can have side effects, including blood clots in your other leg veins, headaches, changes in skin color, fainting, and temporary vision problems.

Laser treatments can last for 15 to 20 minutes, and you may need 2 to 5 treatments before you get rid of the varicose veins. No incisions are made, but the laser can be painful nonetheless.

Your doctor will insert a catheter, or small tube, into the problem vein through which a small probe is inserted. The laser or radio waves are transmitted through the tip of this probe, closing off the vein. Healthy veins around the closed vein take over the flow of blood. Varicose veins on the surface that are connected to the treated vein usually close up shortly after treatment, as well. This is a newer procedure, and it usually replaces the need to surgically remove the veins.

You will receive anesthesia during this treatment, and the treatment will be performed in an operating room. After the veins are removed, deeper veins will usually take over for the veins that are now missing, so blood flow should not be affected.

Scarring is usually minimal with this treatment.

This treatment is generally only used for varicose veins causing skin ulcers.