What is the primary treatment for varicose veins?

Compression stockings are the primary treatment for varicose veins because they help improve venous circulation by applying pressure to the legs. This pressure aids in reducing the diameter of distended veins and helps prevent the pooling of blood, which is a significant issue in varicose veins. The use of these stockings can lead to symptoms of pain, swelling, and heaviness being alleviated, making them an effective conservative management option.

In contrast, while antibiotics are useful for treating infections, they do not address the underlying issues of venous insufficiency that lead to varicose veins. Diuretics may help reduce swelling, but they do not correct the venous insufficiency or improve venous return in varicose veins. Blood thinners might be necessary in managing blood clots but do not provide therapeutic benefit in improving the symptoms or the physical condition of varicose veins themselves. Therefore, the use of compression stockings stands out as the most direct and beneficial intervention in treating varicose veins.