Varicose veins can be unsightly and sometimes painful. But are varicose veins dangerous? In most cases they are not. But for some people, varicose veins can have a variety of negative side effects that range from being a nuisance to painful and in the rarest cases lead to conditions that could be life treating.
Most people will not develop major negative side effects from their varicose veins. But it is important to have an understanding of the risk factors associated with the condition. In this article we will detail what varicose veins are, what risks are associated with them and what you can do to obtain treatment for your veins. Always remember that it is best to consult a medical doctor for the most accurate and individual information for your personal health and symptoms.
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins present themselves as bulging, twisted and highly visible veins in the legs. But what are they and why do they look like they do? Varicose veins are the result of damaged veins that have lost the ability to effectively send blood back up towards the heart. This in turn causes the veins in the leg to bulge, twist and appear on the legs of those suffering from the condition.
There are a variety of risk factors associated with the development of varicose veins. Though genetics do play a role varicose veins are also a result of lifestyle. Varicose veins are caused by excessive pressure on the legs or abdomen. This can be a result of being on the feet for long amounts of time or by other facts such as pregnancy or being overweight. Not every person who is overweight or pregnant will develop varicose veins but for some these factors will contribute to their development.
For a complete list of risk factors associated with the development of varicose veins see our previous article “How to Get Rid of Veins and Varicose Veins”.
What are possible symptoms?
The most common symptom of varicose veins is that the veins in one’s legs will become visible, twisted and bulging. But there are many more symptoms associated with varicose veins that should be considered. See our list below of possible symptoms of varicose veins. Always remember that you should consult your medical doctor if you have any concerns about your veins.
- Swelling – a common symptoms of varicose veins is swelling in the leg. This takes place when excess blood leaks into the tissue near varicose veins and can result in skin becoming discoloured. This occurrence is called hyperpigmentation.
- Bleeding – varicose veins can break down the skin and make it so that some will bleed more when experiencing small cuts and scrapes. This is often no serious but can be a nuisance. Others may
- Leg Ulcer – serve varicose veins can result in chronic venous insufficiency. When this occurs, parts of the skin breaks down and can reveal the flesh underneath. This can cause pain and discomfort.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis – this is the most serious possible symptom of varicose veins, but it is not a typical symptom of varicose veins. Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT is when a blood clot develops deep inside the leg. This condition must be treated and if you have any symptoms of DVT you should contact your medical doctor immediately.
These symptoms are on the more server side of what can take place if varicose veins are left untreated. Most people with mild varicose veins will not experience major symptoms. Many people will report that swelling and some discomfort is a normal part of their experience with varicose veins. There are a variety of treatments available to help with discomfort caused by varicose veins. Consult with you doctor to determine what steps you should take to help treat symptoms and prevent an increase in adverse symptoms.
What Can I do to Treat My Veins?
There are a variety of treatments available to assist with varicose veins. Many of which can reduce both the adverse symptoms and reduce the appearance of varicose veins. Though some people may wish to treat their varicose veins for medical reasons it is reasonable to wish to have varicose veins reduced or removed for aesthetic reasons. The type of treatment that you choose will be determined by the severity of your varicose veins as well as any other risk factors or medical conditions.
In our article “How to Get Rid of Veins and Varicose Veins” we take an in depth look at the different types of treatments available to reduce or remove varicose veins. Some of the most common methods of removing varicose veins include;
- Laser Vein Removal – this procedure to remove varicose veins by closing them with laser treatment.
- Sclerotherapy – this procedure removes varicose veins by having a foam injected into the vein to close them off.
- High Ligation and Vein Stripping – this procedure involves having the veins surgically removed.
How to Relieve Varicose Vein Pain?
Many people find that they experience pain or discomfort associated with their varicose veins. If you are looking for help with managing the discomfort associated with varicose veins you may wish to consider compression stockings. Compression stockings can aid the body in circulating blood back to the heart helping give your damaged veins a boost. Compression socks are also helpful in managing varicose veins after obtaining removal treatments.
How Can I Get help?
If you are interested in varicose vein removal you have a variety of options to choose from. If you have severe veins and experience some of the symptoms, we outlined in this article it is a good idea to speak with your doctor. They can help you understand the severity of your veins and help to determine the appropriate path for you.
At our Body Clinic we treat patients looking to reduce or remove the appearance of varicose veins. You don’t have to suffer with painful or visible varicose veins alone. Book a free consultation today and let us help you enhance your natural beauty.
