Venous Reflux – Frequently Asked Question

Venous reflux, also known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), happens when the valves in the leg veins don’t work properly, allowing blood to flow backward instead of returning to the heart. This leads to pooling of blood in the veins, which can cause swelling, discomfort, varicose veins, and skin changes over time.

Venous reflux occurs when the vein valves weaken or become damaged, often due to:

✔ Aging – Veins naturally lose elasticity over time.
✔ Genetics – If your family members have vein disease, you’re more likely to develop it.
✔ Prolonged standing or sitting – Poor circulation contributes to valve failure.
✔ Pregnancy & hormonal changes – Increased blood volume and hormonal shifts can weaken veins.
✔ Obesity – Extra weight puts additional pressure on leg veins.
✔ History of blood clots (DVT) or leg injuries – Can cause long-term vein damage.

While venous reflux itself isn’t life-threatening, it can lead to serious complications if left untreated, including:

⚠ Painful varicose veins
⚠ Chronic leg swelling and discomfort
⚠ Skin discoloration (brown or reddish patches on the legs)
⚠ Venous ulcers (slow-healing open wounds, usually near the ankles)
⚠ Increased risk of blood clots

Venous reflux is a widespread condition, affecting up to 40% of adults. It is more common in women than men and often worsens with age.

Those at higher risk include:

• People over 50
• Individuals with a family history of venous disease
• Women who have been pregnant (especially multiple pregnancies)
• People with sedentary lifestyles or jobs requiring prolonged standing or sitting
• Those who are overweight or obese

Symptoms vary in severity but may include:

✔ Leg heaviness or aching, especially after standing for long periods
✔ Swelling in the lower legs and ankles
✔ Itching or burning sensations in the affected veins
✔ Skin discoloration, usually brownish or reddish patches
✔ Development of varicose veins
✔ Leg ulcers, in more advanced cases

Without treatment, venous reflux can worsen over time, leading to:

⚠ Chronic leg swelling and discomfort
⚠ Skin thickening, darkening, and irritation
⚠ Venous ulcers (which can take months to heal and may become infected)
⚠ Higher risk of blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Early treatment can prevent complications and improve circulation, making daily activities more comfortable.

A vein specialist will take a history and perform a physical examination. However, for a more detailed assessment, a duplex ultrasound scan is recommended to assess venous reflux (incompetence of valves) and rule out other issues like deep vein thrombosis. 

Modern treatments are quick, effective, and minimally invasive, meaning little to no downtime. Options include:

• Lifestyle Modifications: Compression stockings, exercise, and weight management
• Minimally Invasive Procedures:
  • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Uses heat to close off diseased veins
  • ClariVein®: Combines mechanical and chemical treatments
  • VenaSeal™: Utilizes medical adhesive to seal veins
  • Sclerotherapy: Injection of a solution to close small varicose and spider veins
  • Mini-Phlebectomy: Removal of bulging varicose veins through mini incisions
• Surgical Options (in severe cases):
  • Vein stripping and ligation: traditional surgical method involves tying off and removing the affected veins through an incision in the groin

Very often, a combination of techniques are utilized to get the best outcome.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of venous reflux or want to explore treatment options, booking an appointment is easy:

📍 Visit: Novena Vascular & Varicose Vein Centre. 38 Irrawaddy Rd, #08-48, Singapore 329563
📞 Call or drop a message on WhatsApp: (+65) 9727-0788
📧 Email: contact@drdarryllim.com
🌐 Website: https://drdarryllim.com