Varicose Veins
If your leg veins bulge and feel heavy, especially in the evening – it could be varicose veins.
It's not just about beauty issues.
Varicose veins are a condition in which the valves in the leg's veins weaken, causing blood to flow backward and stagnate. While the blood vessels may appear twisted and bulging, many cases involve symptoms like heavy legs, swelling, and frequent cramps without visible blood vessel abnormalities.
- Occupations requiring prolonged standing, pregnancy, and family history are risk factors.
- Diagnosis is confirmed through an ultrasound examination performed while standing to check for backflow (available at vascular surgery or thoracic surgery clinics).
Source: 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 · as of 2026-08-13
Treatment and management.
- If the symptoms are mild, we monitor them with medical compression stockings (covering up to the calf, worn in the morning), leg elevation, and weight management.
- If reflux is evident, a procedure using laser or radiofrequency to block the problematic blood vessels is standard, and recovery is quick as it can be performed on the same day. In cases where reflux is confirmed, health insurance may apply.
- Hot saunas and baths can dilate blood vessels and worsen symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if you don't get treatment and just leave it be?
It's not an immediately dangerous disease, but it progresses slowly, and over time, it can lead to skin discoloration, eczema, and in rare cases, even skin ulcers. If the symptoms interfere with your daily life, consider seeking treatment.
I was recommended for a procedure, but I'm worried it might be unnecessary treatment.
If you receive a direct explanation of the reflux ultrasound results (reflux time) and are recommended for an expensive, non-covered procedure when your symptoms are unclear, it is reasonable to seek a second opinion from another hospital.
Sources for this page
· 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 (as of 2026-08-13)Last checked: 2026년 8월 13일
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