Cold Feet and Heavy Legs Could Be a Sign of Varicose Veins, Says Study

If you often feel cold feet or heaviness in your legs, it might be more than just tiredness or cold weather. A new study says these signs could point to varicose veins — a condition where veins become swollen, twisted, and weak.

Researchers found that many people who suffer from varicose veins report symptoms like cold feet, aching legs, or a heavy feeling, especially after standing or sitting for a long time. These symptoms usually start slowly but can get worse over time if left untreated.

Varicose veins happen when the valves in your veins stop working properly. Instead of helping blood flow smoothly back to the heart, the damaged valves let blood collect in the veins. This causes the veins to swell and become visible under the skin, mostly in the legs.

The study’s authors said it’s important to notice early signs. “People often ignore cold feet and heavy legs, thinking it’s just tiredness. But these symptoms could be your body’s way of warning you about poor blood flow,” one doctor explained.

Varicose veins affect both men and women, but women are more likely to develop them. Risk factors include age, sitting or standing for long hours, obesity, pregnancy, and family history. People who work in jobs that require standing all day — like teachers, nurses, and shop workers — are especially at risk.

Doctors recommend staying active, avoiding sitting or standing too long, and wearing compression socks to improve blood flow in the legs. In more serious cases, treatments like laser therapy or minor surgery can help remove or close the damaged veins.

If you feel coldness, pain, or pressure in your legs often, experts say you should speak to a doctor. Early treatment can prevent the condition from getting worse and improve your quality of life.

The study’s findings remind us to pay attention to what our bodies are telling us — even when the signs seem small.