Bleeding Varicose Veins: What To Do
If a varicose vein starts bleeding, lie down, raise the leg and apply firm, direct pressure over the bleeding point with a clean cloth or dressing. Heavy or persistent bleeding, or feeling faint, needs emergency help. Even if the bleeding stops, arrange urgent medical assessment because it can happen again.
In this video, Dr Andrew Choong, vascular and endovascular surgeon in Singapore, explains the first steps and why a bleeding vein deserves more than a dressing.
What should you do immediately?
Lie down and lift the affected leg. This helps reduce pressure in the veins.
Press firmly directly on the bleeding point. Use a clean cloth or dressing and maintain pressure; do not keep lifting it to check.
Get medical help. Call 995 in Singapore if bleeding is heavy, will not stop or you feel faint. Continue direct pressure while help is arranged.
If you take blood thinners, seek urgent medical advice after any bleeding episode. Tell the treating team which medicines you take.
Why can varicose veins bleed?
Varicose veins are enlarged superficial veins. When their valves do not work properly, blood can flow backwards, a problem called venous reflux. Pressure can build in the lower leg, and the skin over a vein may become thin or fragile.
A small break in that skin can therefore produce surprisingly brisk bleeding. It is not necessarily a large visible vein that causes the problem. Associated swelling, brown ankle skin or an ulcer can signal chronic venous insufficiency.
Does it still need assessment if it stops?
Yes. Stopping the bleeding does not establish that the underlying vein problem has resolved. Seek prompt assessment even after a first episode. Do not wait for another bleed or a routine appointment weeks later.
The assessment considers where the bleeding occurred, previous episodes, skin changes and medicines. A venous duplex ultrasound maps blood flow and identifies reflux in the superficial and deep veins. This helps establish which veins are responsible and what treatment is appropriate.
How can treatment reduce the risk of another bleed?
The immediate priority is controlling the bleeding. After that, treatment addresses the responsible vein and any underlying reflux. Depending on the scan and clinical findings, options may include injection or foam sclerotherapy, endovenous radiofrequency ablation or another suitable vein procedure.
There is no single operation for every bleeding vein. The location, anatomy, skin condition and general health guide the choice. The aim is to lower the risk of recurrence, without promising that further bleeding can never occur.
Assessment in Singapore
Once urgent care has been arranged, contact Andrew Choong Vascular Surgery at Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre for follow-up assessment. Bring your medication list and any previous vein scan reports. You can also watch this explanation in the video library.