Patients often ask when varicose vein treatment is funded by the NHS. This page provides clear, patient-friendly guidance on eligibility, referral pathways, and treatment options in Wiltshire, Salisbury and Bath, aligned with current clinical standards.

What are varicose veins

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins in the legs caused by valve dysfunction. While many are harmless, some cause symptoms and skin complications that warrant intervention.

Common symptoms: aching or heaviness, throbbing, night cramps, ankle or calf swelling.

Skin changes: itching, eczema, darkening (hyperpigmentation), lipodermatosclerosis.

Complications: bleeding from veins, superficial thrombophlebitis, venous leg ulcers.

When treatment is funded by the NHS

The NHS typically funds intervention when varicose veins cause significant symptoms or medically relevant complications. Treatment is not funded for appearance alone.

Symptomatic veins: persistent pain, heaviness, or swelling that affects daily life. An impact on daily life statement helps to support your application

Skin damage: Venous eczema is not usually considered for funding purposes. In some cases pigmentation, hardening or inflammation linked to venous disease may qualify.

Ulcers: active or healed venous leg ulcers requiring definitive venous management.

Bleeding veins: episodes of bleeding or recurrent complications such as phlebitis. These need to be medically documented

What treatments are offered

If eligible, patients are assessed and offered minimally invasive options first, based on duplex ultrasound findings and clinical need.

Duplex ultrasound: maps reflux and guides personalised treatment planning.

Foam sclerotherapy: a cost-effective and popular intervention.

Surgical options: reserved for cases where minimally invasive treatments are not appropriate.

Referral pathway and access

Access to NHS varicose vein services starts with your GP and proceeds to vascular assessment where criteria are met.

Step 1: Discuss symptoms with your GP; share any pain, swelling, skin changes, bleeding or ulcer history.

Step 2: Your GP may refer you to a vascular unit for duplex ultrasound and treatment planning.

Step 3: Wiltshire and surrounding areas are typically served by vascular units in Swindon and Salisbury.

Wiltshire: local notes

Local services prioritise patients with complications and clinically significant symptoms. Waiting times and eligibility may vary by commissioning policies, but the clinical thresholds above are consistently applied.

Frequently asked questions

Is cosmetic treatment covered by the NHS? No. Treatment is not funded for appearance alone. Funding is considered when there are symptoms or complications.

Do I need an ultrasound before treatment? Yes. A duplex ultrasound is the foundation for safe, targeted treatment planning and confirms where reflux is present.

How long are NHS waiting times? Waiting times vary by service demand and commissioning. If symptoms are progressing, consider seeking assessment promptly.

Can I use compression stockings instead? Compression may relieve symptoms for some patients but does not correct underlying reflux. Definitive options are minimally invasive treatments.