Are varicose veins a health risk or just a cosmetic issue?

Depends: Spider varicosities in a 90 year old patient is not an issue, in younger persons indicates venous hypertension, larger varicose veins are always a health issue.

Vein health Risk: Varicose veins is a term that is used by patients and physician to cover a wide variety of vein problems. From spider veins to ropy veins to frank venous aneurysm. Physician examination to include focused ultrasound review of the veins is key. Ultrasound review must include review of venous flow patterns looking for venous reflux or backward venous flow. Treatment is then based on findings.

Can be a bit of both: Varicose veins may present only a cosmetic concern. They also often cause symptoms that worsen the longer you are on your feet during the day. They can also cause more significiant problems including skin changes, bleeding and ulceration. When one of these complications occur, we call it chronic venous insufficiency (cvi). Cvi is certainly a health risk. I agree with dr. White on eval.

Minor risk: Venous hypertension and varicose veins are minor health risk for phlebitis, stasis skin change, neuropathy and ulcers. Compression devices can manage most of the risk. The procedures do offer benefit. Take a friend with you for the risk/benefit analysis.