Varicose Veins: Symptoms, Treatments, and Management Options for Optimal Care

Healthcare | 2025-08-28 15:08:14
[mediK / HEALTH IN NEWS] [Physician's Column] By Jongdeok Park, Director of Seoul Hajeong Surgery Daejeon Branch

Varicose veins occur when weakened venous valves cause blood to flow backward and pool in the leg veins. Over time, the veins dilate and thicken, leading to cosmetic concerns as well as pain and swelling. Beyond aesthetic issues, untreated varicose veins can lead to serious complications like skin ulcers or blood clots.

Treatment varies depending on the severity of symptoms and the extent of venous damage. In early stages, non-surgical approaches such as wearing compression stockings and adopting lifestyle changes are recommended. These methods effectively reduce venous pressure and improve blood circulation. However, for more advanced cases, invasive procedures or surgery may be necessary.

Minimally invasive treatments—such as laser therapy, radiofrequency ablation, and medical adhesive vein closure—have become increasingly common in recent years. These procedures close off diseased veins and reroute blood flow to healthier vessels. Because they require no surgical incisions, patients typically experience less pain and faster recovery. Still, not everyone is an ideal candidate, so a thorough medical evaluation is critical before treatment.

For severe cases, traditional vein stripping surgery is still an option. This procedure involves surgically removing the affected veins and can be effective, though recovery tends to take longer and scarring is possible. Because of these drawbacks, minimally invasive methods are now generally preferred by both doctors and patients.

Dr. Jongdeok Park, Seoul Hajeong Surgery Daejeon Branch
Dr. Jongdeok Park, Seoul Hajeong Surgery Daejeon Branch


Long-term management is essential. Even after treatment, patients should continue wearing compression stockings, avoid prolonged sitting or standing, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy weight to prevent recurrence. Symptom relief alone does not mean the condition is cured.

Early diagnosis and proactive treatment are critical. Even if varicose veins are not visibly prominent, symptoms like leg heaviness, pain, or itching warrant a venous ultrasound to assess the condition accurately. Treating varicose veins is far less burdensome than ignoring them.

Lim Hye Jung, medi·K TEAM press@themedik.kr
Copyright © 2020 mediK. All rights reserved.

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