If your legs feel heavy, swollen, or uncomfortable, or if you have noticed visible veins becoming more prominent, superficial venous disease may be the cause. The good news is that this condition is common and highly treatable with modern, minimally invasive care.
Your veins contain tiny one-way valves that help push blood back toward your heart. When these valves weaken or stop working properly, blood can flow backward and pool in the leg veins. This condition is known as venous insufficiency.
Over time, this pressure can lead to visible spider veins, reticular veins, or varicose veins, along with symptoms such as aching, heaviness, and swelling.
- Spider Veins
- Reticular Veins
- Varicose Veins
Understanding what is happening beneath the surface is the first step toward improving both how your legs feel and how they look.
Small, thin red or purple veins that appear close to the skin’s surface, often in web-like patterns. They are usually cosmetic but may reflect early changes in vein valve function.
Medium-sized blue or green veins located beneath the skin. They may feed into spider veins and can sometimes cause mild discomfort. They are often seen behind the knees or along the backs of the legs.
Larger, bulging, twisted veins that rise above the skin’s surface. These veins are more likely to cause symptoms such as aching, heaviness, swelling, and skin changes if left untreated.
Superficial venous disease can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to more noticeable changes.
Common symptoms include:
- Aching or heaviness in the legs.
- Leg fatigue.
- Visible spider or varicose veins.
- Swelling, especially around the ankles.
- Burning, itching, or throbbing sensations.
- Skin discoloration or dryness.
Symptoms often worsen after prolonged standing or sitting.
A comprehensive evaluation helps us understand exactly what is happening and create a treatment plan tailored to you.
Step 1: Medical History and Physical Exam
We begin with a thorough consultation to review your symptoms, lifestyle, and any contributing risk factors.
Step 2: Venous Ultrasound
A non-invasive, real-time imaging study allows us to see how blood flows through your veins and identify areas of reflux or valve dysfunction.
Step 3: Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on your ultrasound findings and goals, we develop a customized care plan designed to improve circulation and relieve symptoms.
Compression garments apply graduated pressure from the ankle upward to support healthy circulation and reduce swelling. They may be used alone or following procedures, depending on medical guidance and individual recovery needs.
Often considered the gold standard for spider veins and many varicose veins, sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution that closes the affected vein. Treatments are quick, typically 15 to 20 minutes, with minimal downtime.
An advanced treatment that uses a medical adhesive to close diseased veins from the inside. This ultrasound-guided procedure is performed in-office and allows most patients to return to normal activities the same day.
You may want to seek evaluation if you experience:
- Persistent heaviness or swelling
- Worsening or newly visible veins
- Skin discoloration or texture changes
- Ongoing discomfort in your legs
Many people delay treatment because they assume vein changes are only cosmetic. In reality, modern vein treatments are highly effective and minimally invasive, and they can significantly improve both comfort and confidence.
Our procedures are designed to be comfortable and convenient.
- Performed in-office
- Local numbing for comfort
- Ultrasound guidance for precision
- Outpatient treatment
- Same-day return home
General anesthesia is rarely required, and most patients are pleasantly surprised by how straightforward the experience is.
Recovery is typically quick and uncomplicated.
Immediately after treatment, you will be able to walk and return home the same day.
Most daily activities can be resumed right away, though heavy exercise may be limited for a short period. Mild soreness or bruising can occur but generally resolves quickly.
Follow-up appointments or ultrasound imaging may be recommended to confirm successful treatment.
If you are searching for superficial venous disease treatment in the Lower Mainland, our clinic provides comprehensive evaluation and minimally invasive solutions for spider veins, reticular veins, and varicose veins. Venous insufficiency occurs when weakened vein valves allow blood to pool in the legs, leading to visible veins, swelling, heaviness, and discomfort. With advanced diagnostic ultrasound and personalized treatment plans, we help patients in the Lower Mainland improve circulation, relieve symptoms, and restore confidence in their legs.
Modern varicose vein and spider vein treatments are highly effective and require little to no downtime. From compression therapy and sclerotherapy to advanced procedures such as VenaSeal™, treatment is tailored to your specific vein pattern and symptoms. Early evaluation of venous insufficiency can help prevent progression and reduce long-term complications. If you are experiencing leg heaviness, swelling, or visible veins, a professional vein assessment can determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
Pacific Glow MD
If your legs feel heavy, uncomfortable, or you are concerned about visible veins, we are here to help. Let’s understand what is happening beneath the surface and create a personalized plan that supports your long-term vein health. Book an appointment today to take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable legs.
