I have been diagnosed with advanced deep vein reflux in my femoral and saphenous veins. Since it is untreatable, what can I expect to happen?

I have had a few opinions given based on all testing performed. I have led an active lifestyle. Before retiring I spent 40 years as a plumber. The last 10 years of my career I commuted 24 miles roundtrip on the steep hills of Seattle by bicycle. I was a premie in 1952 and was what they categorized as an "oxygen kid," complete with compromised vision. Is this reflux issue yet another condition caused by the oversaturation of oxygen at birth?

Answers from doctors (5)


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Jan 20, 2016

It has nothing to do with oxygen; it is mainly a hereditary disorder. The saphenous vein reflux could still be treated and may help your overall condition.

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Answered by Advanced Vein Center

It has nothing to do with oxygen; it is mainly a hereditary disorder. The saphenous vein reflux could still be treated and may help your overall condition.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Jan 13, 2016

Reflux of the saphenous system is treated by a closure procedure if symptomatic. Reflux of the deep system is treated by exercise, weight control, and support hose. Having reflux is not an issue unless it is symptomatic. I have many patients with reflux and no symptoms, who then only require support hose. If you have symptoms of venous disease, then you should follow up with a vein specialist.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Reflux of the saphenous system is treated by a closure procedure if symptomatic. Reflux of the deep system is treated by exercise, weight control, and support hose. Having reflux is not an issue unless it is symptomatic. I have many patients with reflux and no symptoms, who then only require support hose. If you have symptoms of venous disease, then you should follow up with a vein specialist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor St. Louis Vein Center

Published on Jan 12, 2016

No, there is no evidence that prematurity or oversaturation of oxygen causes vein reflux. The bicycle riding is good for your veins.

Answered by St. Louis Vein Center (View Profile)

No, there is no evidence that prematurity or oversaturation of oxygen causes vein reflux. The bicycle riding is good for your veins.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana

Published on Jan 12, 2016

There is no data supporting being a premie and oxygen levels with venous insufficiency.

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Answered by Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana

There is no data supporting being a premie and oxygen levels with venous insufficiency.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Susan B Fox, D.O. RPVI, FSVM

Published on Jan 12, 2016

There is no data to suggest that this has anything to do with you being a premie. This is a very common problem. Most likely someone in your family had varicose veins or vein problems and you inherited it from them.

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Answered by Susan B Fox, D.O. RPVI, FSVM

There is no data to suggest that this has anything to do with you being a premie. This is a very common problem. Most likely someone in your family had varicose veins or vein problems and you inherited it from them.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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