Varicose veins might not cause pain. Signs of varicose veins include: Veins that are dark purple or blue Veins that appear twisted and bulging, often appearing like cords on the legs When painful signs and symptoms of varicose veins occur, they might include: An achy or heavy feeling in the legs Burning, throbbing, muscle cramping and swelling in the lower legs Worsened pain after sitting or standing for a long time Itching around one or more of the veins Changes in skin color around a varicose vein