Tips for Identifying Severe Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are a very common condition, affecting an estimated 25 percent of adults in the United States. While most cases of varicose veins are merely a cosmetic issue, these can become severe and even pose a health risk.
If you’re on this page because you’re wondering if yours are any cause for concern, below we’ve prepared a few tips for identifying severe varicose veins, so that you can get the treatment that you need and avoid complications.
Tip #1 Know the Specific Signs to Watch Out For
If those swollen, twisted, rope-like bluish or purple veins are accompanied by the following symptoms, it could mean you have severe varicose veins:
- Aching or throbbing in the area
- Burning, itching, tingling, and feeling of heaviness in your legs
- Muscle cramps, tenderness, and swelling in your lower legs
Tip # 2 Examine Your Legs Every Now and Then
You also need to closely examine your legs for signs of skin dryness, irritation, and discoloration around the affected veins. Have a loved one check the back of your legs as well for any changes. Do not ignore hyperpigmentation (skin patches that are darker than the normal surrounding skin) in the lower legs, thickening and hardening of skin similar to eczema, and edema.
If you’re at risk of suffering an injury to your leg, make sure to also check for signs of ulcer or bleeding, which are among the complications of severe varicose veins.
Tip #3 Visit a Vein Specialist
Severe varicose veins warrant a visit to a vein specialist for a thorough evaluation and timely intervention.
To arrive at an accurate diagnosis, your vein doctor will carry out a physical exam, examining your legs and asking you about your symptoms. In addition, they may recommend a venous Doppler ultrasound.
During the procedure, your vein doctor moves a small, handheld device known as a transducer against your skin over your legs or another area of your body to examine the blood flow through the valves in your veins and check for potential signs of a blood clot.
Your vein specialist may then discuss the available treatment options with you. Your doctor may recommend a catheter-based procedure (endovenous ablation), vein stripping – or if yours are close to the surface of your skin – ambulatory phlebectomy.
Varicose Vein Treatment in Kansas City, MO
At Missouri Vein Specialists. Dr. Scott Darling, our board-certified venous and lymphatic medicine physician, offers the men and women in Kansas City various treatment options for varicose veins and other vein disorders. Whatever you need – whether endovenous laser or radiofrequency ablation, vein stripping, or microphlebectomy – Dr. Darling is committed to helping you achieve the best experience and cosmetic outcome.
To book a consultation with Dr. Darling, contact us at (816) 792-3400 or fill out our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
