However, according to Dr Chong Tze Tec, Senior Consultant and Head, Department of Vascular Surgery, Singapore General Hospital (SGH), a member of the SingHealth group, this condition is largely undiagnosed and untreated.

“Most people just don’t know about it. Their legs may feel heavy and they may see unsightly varicose veins and pigmentation, which they think is a normal part of ageing. They also tend to think it is just a cosmetic problem even though it is not. It can become a serious medical condition,” he said.

In its early stages, putting the feet up is often enough to relieve the feelings of heaviness or fatigue. As the condition advances, however, unsightly varicose veins, swelling of the leg, discolouration of the skin, eczema and ulcers can develop. One study suggests that 30 per cent of untreated patients will have more serious problems within six years, including the chance of the vein rupturing and bleeding heavily.

The condition tends to affect the:

• Elderly
• Obese
• Pregnant women
• Those who have to stand for long periods of time.

It also is more common among people with a family history of the problem.

Patients who have the following symptoms should seek medical advice:

• Swelling of the legs and ankles
• Feelings of heaviness
• Fatigue
• Aching, cramping, burning or itching in the legs
• Discoloration of the skin
• Ulcers and open wounds

Beyond aesthetic improvements, symptoms such as swelling, heaviness, aching, cramping and itching should be alleviated once venous insufficiency is treated, Dr Chong said. "After a long day, legs will feel lighter and patients will experience an improvement to their quality of life.”

Read on to learn about the quick and painless treatment for venous insufficiency.

Ref:O17