Varicose Veins
Swollen, twisted veins that you can see just under the surface of the skin, usually in the legs.
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that develop when valves inside the leg veins weaken, causing blood to pool rather than return efficiently to the heart. They are signs of underlying venous insufficiency that can progress to chronic swelling and skin changes if untreated.
Book a Consultation
Varicose veins occur when blood pools in the legs due to weakened valves, potentially leading to swelling and discomfort.
Symptoms
- Leg aching, heaviness, and swelling — especially after prolonged standing or sitting
- Skin discoloration and itching
- Visible bulging veins on the calf or thigh
- Spider veins (smaller red or purple vessel clusters)
When to Seek Specialist Care
A vascular assessment is recommended for persistent leg swelling, ankle skin changes, or tender veins, as these may signal chronic venous insufficiency or deep vein thrombosis.
Treatment Options
- Compression therapy: primary management approach
- Sclerotherapy: injectable treatment for smaller veins, in-clinic with minimal recovery
- Radiofrequency or laser ablation: minimally invasive thermal procedures with quick recovery
- Surgical stripping: used for large, persistent cases when other options aren't suitable
Why Consult a Specialist
A vascular medicine expert uses duplex ultrasound to evaluate venous anatomy, differentiate between cosmetic and clinical disease, and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Concerned About Varicose Veins?
Dr. Peter Chang offers specialist assessment and personalised management at Paragon Medical Centre, Singapore.