Most people struggling with venous disease have a variety of symptoms which can include: aching leg pain, fatigue/heaviness, swelling, restless legs, night cramps and pruritus (itchy legs). These symptoms often get worse as the day progresses and are sometimes relieved by leg elevation. It is important to note that venous insufficiency may be present in the absence of varicose or spider veins. These individuals can still benefit from today’s in-office procedures.

Heredity, obesity, pregnancy, age, trauma and standing for long periods of time have been blamed as potential causes of venous insufficiency. Research is ongoing as to the true underlying cause(s).

If left untreated, chronic venous insufficiency may cause skin color changes (known as stasis pigmentation or lipodermatosclerosis) around the ankles and lower legs. This denotes unhealthy skin, which may predispose individuals to open sores (ulcerations) and bleeding or bruising after a minor injury. Fortunately, this is relatively rare.