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Varicose veins are a common problem, affecting up to 1 in 3 adults in their lifetime. They are usually a sign of an underlying venous insufficiency.
Thread veins can appear anywhere on the body but are mostly evidenced on the legs and face. They are more common than varicose veins, affecting up to 80% of adults.
Leg ulcers appear as broken skin in the lower leg or feet. We have been successfully treating venous leg ulcers for over 20 years.
Upfront and fixed prices. Find out exactly what you’ll pay before attending. Medical Insurance should fund varicose vein treatment.
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The below content has been medically reviewed and approved by Consultant Interventional Radiologist Dr. Mark Bratby (MBBS, MRCP, FRCR), Medical Director and Head of the Medical Advisory Committee at Veincentre.
Last reviewed 9th May 2025.
While it’s not typical, a burst varicose vein is possible and when it happens, it should be taken seriously.
At Veincentre, our consultants are here to guide you through every stage of your vein health, starting with understanding the risks, signs, and solutions. The good news? Help is available, with modern minimally invasive treatments.
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that have become enlarged due to faulty valves. Over time, pressure builds up in the vein. If the skin over the vein becomes thin or is damaged by scratching or trauma, it can lead to a burst varicose vein in the leg, ankle, or even foot.
We typically see this in people with long-standing or untreated varicose veins, where pressure tends to be highest. If you’ve noticed skin changes like discolouration, dryness or visible swelling, it’s worth contacting us.
While a burst varicose vein might come as a surprise, it’s usually not serious and can often be managed easily at home. In some cases, it may lead to visible bruising or minor bleeding, either under the skin or on the surface but this is part of your body’s natural response and often settles quickly.
Bleeding may look more than it is, but with simple first aid, for example, elevating your leg and applying gentle pressure, it usually stops within a few minutes. If it doesn’t, or if the area becomes sore or swollen, it’s a good idea to check in with a healthcare professional for peace of mind and any further advice. If a vein bursts, it’s your body’s way of signalling that your veins need attention. The reassuring news is that minimally invasive treatments, like EVLA, can treat the underlying issue and help prevent future flare-ups.
Our consultants often see this occur in patients who’ve had untreated varicose veins for many years. The risk is especially high in those with thin skin, ongoing swelling, or venous ulcers.
Common symptoms include:
If you notice any of these signs, especially around your ankle or foot, we recommend contacting us.
If a varicose vein bursts:
Yes, and that’s where Veincentre can help.
By addressing the root cause with our walk-in, walk-out treatments, we can relieve pressure in the veins and prevent further complications. Our minimally invasive varicose vein treatments (Endovenous Laser Ablation) have excellent outcomes and very short recovery times.
We also recommend early intervention for anyone showing signs of advanced varicose veins, such as skin changes or recurring swelling.
A burst vein can be worrying but you’re not alone. At Veincentre, we’re here to provide reassurance, support, and long-lasting results. Whether you’ve experienced symptoms or are simply seeking advice, our team is ready to help.
