Varicose veins are an unfortunately common problem. According to the National Institutes of Health, as many as 20% of adults will develop these enlarged, bumpy, and unsightly veins at some point in their lives. Over time, issues with circulation in the veins of the legs can cause blood to pool, forming varicose veins.
While varicose veins are usually a cosmetic issue or a harmless condition that just looks unusual, some people may experience more severe cases. In fact, varicose veins can actually be painful for some. Here are some of the more serious symptoms of varicose veins and signs that you may need medical treatment.
Varicose veins occur when blood collects in the veins, usually running through the legs, and can’t circulate normally back to the heart. While this may seem serious, varicose veins usually don’t feel different. However, severe cases may be painful, sore, or warm to the touch.
Varicose veins can also cause a sore, cramped sensation, as if your legs are worn out from exercise. This usually isn’t serious, but you should seek treatment if soreness interrupts your everyday activities: working, walking, bathing, exercising as usual, etc. If you experience chronic, ongoing pain from varicose veins or if they feel painful when touched, you should see a doctor.
If untreated, varicose veins can lead to vein ulcers, or open sores on your legs. When blood pools in veins, it can damage nearby skin and cause ulcers to form. Ulcers may not go away on their own and may need treatment.
If you notice red, deep, rounded sores on your legs that aren’t going away, call a doctor. If you’ve had leg vein ulcers for more than 2 weeks, you may need immediate varicose veins treatment.
Varicose veins usually appear as long, bumpy lines under your skin. These are normally harmless. However, if they start to change in appearance you should notify a doctor.
Look for redness or rashes around your veins, as well as swelling. If your legs become swollen, call a doctor immediately. Check your varicose veins often and seek medical treatment if you notice any changes in appearance.
In rare cases, varicose veins can actually start to bleed. This usually happens because the veins in your legs become so damaged that they release blood into the surrounding tissues. This is the most severe symptom associated with varicose veins. If you have varicose veins and you notice bleeding around them, especially bleeding that seems to happen for no particular reason, call a doctor.
Finally, you can see a doctor for varicose veins if you choose to! You don’t have to have painful, swollen, or uncomfortable symptoms. If you don’t like the way that varicose veins look or have been concealing your legs out of shame, please know that a doctor who specializes in vein disorders can help you. There are many treatment options available, depending on factors like severity and your age.
If you’re suffering from varicose veins and experience any of the above symptoms, you should see a doctor right away. A varicose vein doctor can treat your symptoms and offer relief from serious varicose veins. After treatment, your legs may even look good-as-new again.
When it’s time to choose a doctor for your varicose veins, call the BASS Vein Center. Our vein physicians specialize in treating all kinds of vein issues, including painful varicose veins. Call us today to make an appointment. Our doctors serve patients at several convenient locations throughout California.
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