Enlarged leg veins may be associated with pain, heaviness, swelling and skin changes.
When to seek emergency care
If any of the following signs occur, call *3003 immediately — do not wait for a routine appointment:
- Bleeding from a varicose vein
- Sudden swelling and pain in one leg
- Skin ulcer and infection
- Shortness of breath and chest pain
What is it?
Treatment requires identifying not only the visible vein but also the main source of reflux. Venous Doppler therefore forms the basis of the treatment plan.
Symptoms
- Bulging veins
- Leg heaviness
- Night cramps
- Ankle swelling
- Itching
- Skin discoloration
Causes & risk factors
- Family history
- Pregnancy
- Long periods of standing
- Excess weight
- Age
- Hormonal factors
Diagnosis
Diagnosis should not rely on one test alone. Symptoms, risk factors, physical examination and investigation results are interpreted together.
- Venous Doppler
- Clinical examination
- Checking deep veins
- Assessment of skin changes
Treatment approaches
Treatment is individualized according to the severity of the disease, the patient’s overall condition, coexisting diseases and procedural risk.
- Compression
- Endovenous laser or radiofrequency
- Sclerotherapy
- Mini-phlebectomy
- Lifestyle measures
How we help
The source of varicose veins is defined by Doppler mapping. Cosmetic and medical goals are explained separately and treatment is planned in stages.
When a procedure may be needed
Endovenous procedures may be needed for pain, swelling, reflux, skin changes, ulcer risk or bleeding.
Patient checklist
- Do not make a treatment decision without Doppler imaging
- Reduce long periods of standing
- For bleeding from a varicose vein, elevate the leg, apply pressure and seek urgent medical care
- Choose the correct size of compression garment
FAQ
Can varicose veins recur?
Yes, new venous reflux may develop. Proper mapping and follow-up reduce the risk.
Is laser treatment suitable for every varicose vein?
No. The vein’s diameter and course, and the source of reflux, must be suitable.
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