Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about venous disease, diagnosis, and treatment.
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that appear close to the skin's surface, most commonly in the legs. They are caused by faulty valves within the veins that allow blood to pool and cause the vessel walls to stretch and bulge. Risk factors include genetics, prolonged standing, pregnancy, and age.
Compression stockings should be purchased and fitted before your procedure. Buy them in the morning when your legs are least swollen for the best sizing. They are worn to support recovery, reduce swelling, and prevent complications. Our team will advise you on the correct compression grade and assist with fitting if needed.
Modern vein treatments are minimally invasive and cause very little discomfort. Most procedures are performed under local anaesthetic as day procedures, meaning you can go home the same day. Recovery is typically fast — many patients return to normal activities within 1–2 days with minimal downtime.
Yes. Dr. van Wyk provides vein treatment services across multiple provinces including Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape, Free State, North West, and Limpopo. Please contact us to arrange an appointment in a location convenient for you.
Yes. Dr. van Wyk offers pre-operative vein assessments for patients preparing for knee or hip replacement surgery. Treating varicose veins beforehand can reduce the risk of complications during and after orthopaedic procedures.
Wash your compression stockings daily in lukewarm water with mild detergent and allow them to air dry — do not tumble dry or iron them. Having two pairs allows one to be washed while the other is worn. Replace them every 3–6 months as the compression gradually reduces with use.
Leg swelling can have many causes. When it is related to venous disease, it is often due to increased pressure within the veins or vein valves that are not functioning properly. A vein assessment can help determine the underlying cause.
Swelling in one leg should be assessed, as it may indicate a problem with blood flow or a blockage within the vein. Sudden swelling or pain may require prompt medical attention.
Vein problems are often linked to family history, previous blood clots, injury to the vein, or increased pressure caused by factors such as obesity. In many cases, more than one factor may be involved.
Treatment depends on the cause of the swelling. Elevating the legs, wearing compression stockings, and addressing any underlying vein condition may help improve symptoms.
Flat feet may affect how efficiently the calf muscles help move blood back towards the heart. While not everyone with flat feet develops venous disease, it may be a contributing factor in some patients.
No. While some people are concerned about the appearance of varicose veins, they can also be associated with symptoms such as aching, swelling, heaviness, and skin changes.
Diagnosis typically begins with a discussion about your symptoms and medical history, followed by a physical examination and duplex Doppler ultrasound assessment.
Yes. Venous disease is often progressive, which means symptoms and complications may develop or worsen over time if the underlying condition is not addressed.
You should consider an assessment if you experience persistent leg swelling, aching, visible varicose veins, skin changes, slow-healing wounds, or bleeding from a varicose vein.