The symptoms of chronic venous disease include leg pain, heaviness, cramping, fatigue, swollen and throbbing ankles and calves, burning, tingling or itching skin, and restless legs syndrome. Varicose veins, spider veins, and skin discoloration are early signs of chronic venous disease. If left untreated, chronic venous disease can lead to more serious signs, such as skin ulceration and bleeding, phlebitis (inflammation/infection) and deep vein thrombosis (blood clots).

Not all varicose veins can be prevented, however steps can be taken to delay the development or progression of them including:

• Exercise regularly to improve leg strength and circulation (walking is ideal).
• Avoid standing for long periods of time.
• Avoid sitting for long periods of time by taking short walks every 30 minutes. If possible, try to elevate your legs.
• Control weight to avoid placing increased pressure on leg circulation.
• Avoid clothing that limits the use of the calf muscles (e.g. high heels) or restricts blood flow in the groin or calf.

The use of compression stockings as a temporary measure may help to relieve symptoms by supporting the walls of varicose veins and facilitating blood flow back to the heart, however, compression stockings are not a cure. Varicose veins are permanently damaged and typically progress over time and cannot be cured without treatment. Definitive treatment is performed utilizing minimally invasive techniques developed in the last decade.