To explore the treatment willingness and influencing factors among patients with primary lower extremity varicose veins.

A descriptive phenomenological approach within qualitative research was employed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using content analysis to extract themes.

A total of 16 patients with lower extremity varicose veins were included, and five themes were identified: treatment willingness (proactive attitude, change in perception, passive motivation), disease-related factors (early concealed symptoms, later symptom exacerbation, perceived treatment risk), individual-related factors (disease knowledge, attitude toward the disease, age, availability of time, past failure experiences), family-related factors, and social-related factors (successful cases, media influence, medical insurance).

The treatment willingness of patients with primary lower extremity varicose veins is a dynamic and multifaceted process influenced by disease, family, social, and healthcare system factors. To shape patients' treatment willingness and promote healthy behaviors, interventions should be implemented across disease, family, and social dimensions to achieve effective health management.