Are Varicose Veins Dangerous?
Many people ignore the fact that they have prominent, bulging veins on their legs. If you have them, you may figure they’re just a fact of life as people get older, and that there’s nothing you can or should do about it.
But those varicose veins could be trying to tell you something – possibly indicating an underlying health problem or a circulatory issue that deserves treatment in the interest of your health. Let’s talk about some of the warning signs surrounding varicose veins and who you can talk to about whether treatment is necessary in your case.
When to See a Doctor About Varicose Veins
If your varicose veins are accompanied by one or more of the following symptoms, see a vein specialist for an evaluation:
Pain and Warmth
If your legs hurt or feel warm to the touch in the area where your varicose veins are bulging, do not ignore it. Pain, warmth, and swelling could indicate a blood clot that requires treatment.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a complication of varicose veins and causes pain and swelling, and in some cases it may lead to pulmonary embolism. This is when the blood clot breaks away from the vein and travels to your lungs, potentially causing a fatal reaction. This is why a sensation of pain or warmth around a varicose vein warrants medical intervention.
The appearance of varicose veins is also the first sign of chronic venous insufficiency, where the valves in the veins are not properly pushing blood back to your heart. Chronic venous insufficiency can be disabling due to severe pain when getting up to walk.
Bruised Appearance
Your varicose veins can burst and bleed underneath the skin if the pressure builds up more than the vein walls can handle. A burst blood vessel will cause bruising.
It is very easy for an enlarged blood vessel to bleed. You may bump against something by accident which could result in bleeding varicose veins, either internally (causing a bruise) or externally (causing a skin ulcer). This can develop into a serious condition.
Swelling and Skin Changes
The pressure building in your veins can result in swelling due to the leaking of fluid from the blood vessels into the surrounding area. Eventually, your skin will change in color and take on a brown color and a leathery appearance. A vein doctor can treat the vein and help to prevent any further damage in the area.
Skin Ulcers and Open Sores
Varicose veins can cause the formation of ulcers on the skin above the broken vein. These ulcers will be slow to heal due to the amount of swelling in the surrounding skin and other soft tissues. There is a risk of infection with skin ulcers, because your skin is not protecting the tissues and structures underneath.
Varicose Vein Treatment in Kansas City, MO
With early medical intervention of varicose veins, you may just need quick and easy treatment methods. Here at Missouri Vein Specialists, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of vein and vascular issues – from circulation problems to varicose and spider veins to vein diseases.
Our team of vein experts uses advanced technology to evaluate the health of your vascular system, diagnose any issues, and provide the right treatment for your condition. We offer simple, in-office procedures to remove varicose veins safely.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Scott Darling here in KCMO, contact our friendly staff today by calling (816) 792-3400 or by completing our appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping you maintain beautiful, clear skin and a healthy body!
