Ambulance 912HAP 9252
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General health information

Varicose veins

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisting surface veins, usually in the legs. They are often harmless, but pain, skin changes, wounds or sudden leg swelling need assessment.

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Varicose veins are enlarged, twisting surface veins, usually in the legs. They are often harmless, but pain, skin changes, wounds or sudden leg swelling need assessment.

  • Visible blue or purple twisting veins.
  • A heavy, tired, burning or painful feeling in the legs.
  • Walk regularly and move your ankles and calves during prolonged sitting.
  • Avoid long periods of standing still; vary activity.
  • Call the same day for a suddenly swollen, warm or painful leg, a hard red vein or a wound with signs of infection.
  • For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.

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