Why do I have varicose veins in only one leg? Causes and solutions

Varicose veins are a common condition that affects millions of people in the UK. While they often develop in both legs, some individuals may notice that they appear only in one leg. This can lead to concerns about whether the condition is more serious or requires different treatment. In this article, we explore why varicose veins may appear in only one leg and what can be done about them, with insights from UK Vein Care.

Why do varicose veins develop in only one leg?

Varicose veins occur when the valves in the veins stop functioning properly, causing blood to pool and the veins to enlarge. Several factors may contribute to their appearance in only one leg:

• Uneven pressure on the legs – If one leg bears more weight or strain due to work habits, posture, or previous injuries, it may be more prone to developing varicose veins.
• Previous injuries or surgeries – A history of trauma, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or surgery on one leg can impair circulation and lead to varicose veins in that leg.
• Venous insufficiency – Underlying circulation issues may affect one leg more than the other. We explain this in more detail in our article on venous insufficiency.
• Genetics – Some individuals are predisposed to developing varicose veins, and the pattern of vein development can be asymmetrical.

Symptoms of varicose veins in one leg

The symptoms of varicose veins in one leg are similar to those in both legs and may include:

• Bulging, twisted, or enlarged veins
• Aching or heaviness in the affected leg—especially after standing for long periods, which we discuss further in our article on aching legs.
• Swelling in the lower leg or ankle
• Discoloration or skin changes in severe cases

If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to complications such as thrombophlebitis, a condition where veins become inflamed due to clot formation. Learn more in our dedicated article on thrombophlebitis.

Is having varicose veins in one leg more concerning?

While having varicose veins in only one leg does not necessarily indicate a more severe issue, it can sometimes be linked to deeper circulation problems, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or arteriosclerosis, which affect blood flow. We explain these risks further in our article on arteriosclerosis. If you experience sudden swelling, severe pain, or skin color changes, it’s important to seek medical advice.

Treatment options for varicose veins in one leg

At UK Vein Care, we specialize in effective, minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins. Our treatments include:

• Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) – A laser procedure that seals off faulty veins and redirects blood to healthier veins.
• Sclerotherapy – A targeted injection that causes varicose veins to collapse and fade over time.

Our team can help determine the most suitable treatment for your condition.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Varicose Veins in One Leg

Varicose veins are a widespread condition, affecting approximately 23% of adults in the United States. While comprehensive data specifically on varicose veins occurring exclusively in one leg is limited, understanding the general prevalence and risk factors can shed light on this phenomenon.​

A study published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health examined the prevalence of varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) in the general population. The research found that the age-adjusted prevalence of trunk varices was 40% in men and 32% in women. Additionally, the prevalence of CVI was 9% in men and 7% in women, with both conditions increasing in prevalence with age.

Several risk factors contribute to the development of varicose veins, which may also influence their occurrence in only one leg:​

• Age: The likelihood of developing varicose veins increases with age due to wear and tear on vein valves.​
  
  
• Gender: Women are more prone to varicose veins, possibly due to hormonal factors.​
  
  
• Obesity: Excess weight adds pressure to veins, increasing the risk of varicosities.​
  
  
• Prolonged Standing or Sitting: Occupations or activities that require long periods of standing or sitting can impede blood flow, leading to varicose veins.​
  
  

It's important to note that while these factors increase the risk of developing varicose veins, they do not necessarily explain why varicose veins might appear in only one leg. Individual anatomical differences, previous leg injuries, or localized venous insufficiency could contribute to unilateral manifestations. Further research is needed to fully understand the specific causes of varicose veins occurring in only one leg.​

For more detailed information on the prevalence and risk factors associated with varicose veins, you can refer to the study published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health.

Conclusion

Varicose veins in one leg only may seem unusual, but they are often due to common risk factors such as venous insufficiency, previous injuries, or lifestyle habits. While they are not necessarily more dangerous than varicose veins in both legs, they should not be ignored—especially if accompanied by pain or swelling. If you are experiencing symptoms, UK Vein Care offers expert diagnosis and cutting-edge treatments to help you regain healthy circulation and comfort.

For more insights, read our article on why veins suddenly become more visible.