A public education initiative on varicose veins by Medtronic

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Varicose veins can be triggered by your busy lifestyle

Learn how you can identify the early signs of varicose veins today.

Despite its debilitating effects, at least one in three women in Singapore and Malaysia do not regard varicose veins as a cause for concern

Did You Know?

More than 190 million people suffer from chronic vein insufficiency (CVI) or varicose veins globally. Women are also at higher risk.
Risk factors include hormonal changes, pregnancy, obesity, family history and long period of sitting and standing.

(Source: Strategic Market Assessment: Chronic Venous Insufficiency. Dymedex Consulting, LLC. November 2014.)

 

Symptoms often seem superficial, masking as muscle aches, discomfort, and heaviness of the legs.
In its early stages, vein disease can appear as spider veins: small, reddish purplish veins. While they are not necessarily linked to varicose veins, they are caused by the same underlying condition – chronic venous insufficiency.
Left untreated, varicose veins can impact your life
Early and mild symptoms of varicose veins require immediate attention before they escalate to stages that are more serious and difficult to treat. Swollen veins can lead to bleeding and open sores, directly impacting one’s mobility and self-confidence.

Here's What We Found

Varicose Veins Information
Where Are You From?
SINGAPORE
MALAYSIA
SINGAPORE

1-in-3 (36%) are reported to have varicose veins

More than half (56%) are not aware of the complications of varicose veins

Over 3-in-4 (76%) have not and do not plan to seek medical help for varicose veins.

Over 2-in-5 (43%) report being uncertain about treatment options and clinics available.

Source: YouGov Survey conducted by Medtronic in 2021
MALAYSIA

More than half (52%) report having varicose veins

Over two-in-five (42%) note that they are not aware of the complications from varicose veins

Over three-in-five (61%) have not and do not intend to seek medical treatment to remedy varicose veins

31% have noted that varicose veins are not of concern to them

Source: YouGov Survey conducted by Medtronic in 2021

Learn More

Understanding Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are one of the most common vascular diseases. However, in its early stages, varicose veins can be asymptomatic with just visible dilated vein over the thigh or calf. This happens when blood flows back towards the feet instead of returning to the heart because of faulty vein valves, commonly manifesting as varicose veins.

However, this condition is largely undiagnosed and untreated. In its early stages, the symptoms appear as spider veins: small, reddish purplish veins caused by the same underlying condition – chronic venous insufficiency. It is often misconstrued as an aesthetic issue or a normal element of ageing. 

Left untreated, varicose veins can cause swelling of the leg, discolouration of the skin, eczema and ulcers can develop. 

Venous Insufficiency Symptoms If you are experiencing two or more of the following symptoms, please seek medical advice:
  • Swelling of the legs and ankles
  • Feelings of heaviness
  • Fatigue
  • Aching, cramping, burning, or itching in the legs
  • Discoloration of the skin
  • Ulcers and open wounds
Are You at Risk?

Individuals at risk of varicose veins are unfamiliar with the condition and its progressive nature that will negatively impact their quality of life. The condition tends to affect the elderly, pregnant women, obese individuals, and those who stand for long periods of time. 

Contributing Factors for Varicose Veins
  • Family History
    • If your family members have varicose veins, your chances of developing them are greater too.
  • Age
    • Varicose veins usually become more obvious when you turn 40.
  • Pregnancy
    • Women are more prone to the condition and may develop varicose veins during pregnancy because of hormonal changes and increased pressure in the veins as the uterus grows.
Weight gain during pregnancy also puts more pressure on leg veins.
  • Gender
    • Varicose veins are more common in women due to hormonal changes, especially during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Birth control pills can also increase a woman’s risk of developing varicose veins.
  • Lifestyle
    • Occupations and lifestyle factors that require standing for long periods can worsen the condition.

    If you suspect that you might be having varicose veins, seek medical advice for a diagnosis.

Treating Varicose Veins

With early intervention, patients can experience faster healing and reduced risk of varicose veins recurring.  Early diagnosis and treatment can help patients maintain their quality of life without impacting their daily routine and commitments to career and family. Treatment options include:  

Stripping
Early Surgical Treatment
One early surgical procedure to treat varicose veins is known as stripping, which involves general or half-body anaesthesia. The damaged veins are removed, and blood flow is directed through functioning veins. This treatment requires a two-week recovery period.
Endovenous Laser Therapy
Endovenous laser therapy uses a laser to burn the vein under local anaesthesia, a treatment that allows patients to return to normalcy immediately after treatment.
Injection of Foamed Sclerosants
This injection of foamed sclerosants – liquid chemicals in bubble form – enters the inner thigh to harden the vein. This minimally invasive and relatively painless procedure is also performed under local anaesthesia.
Medical-grade superglue
A specially-formulated cyanoacrylate is applied in precise quantities at various points in the problem vein. Following which, pressure is applied to the leg for three minutes at each point to seal it. It is a simple and painless treatment that takes only one hour.
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This page is only for informational purposes around varicose veins. Patients should consult their doctors for diagnosis to determine the most suitable treatment option. All rights reserved © 2021 Medtronic

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