ARE VARICOSE VEINS DANGEROUS AND WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE THEM?
For a lot of people, varicose veins are just a cosmetic issue. They don’t like to see the purple and rugged veins on their thighs and legs. However, varicose veins could be more than just a cosmetic issue. Leaving them untreated for a long time may lead to a variety of severe medical conditions.
Most people suffering from varicose veins experience muscle cramps, heavy feeling legs swollen thighs or legs. A study disclosed that one out of every five adults has varicose veins. So, if you perceive any of these signs, see your doctor immediately.
Most people suffering from varicose veins experience muscle cramps, heavy feeling legs swollen thighs or legs. A study disclosed that one out of every five adults has varicose veins. So, if you perceive any of these signs, see your doctor immediately.
DANGERS OF LEAVING VARICOSE VEINS UNTREATED
Every single case of varicose veins is different. While some patients will notice their symptoms worsen, others could be at risk of life-threating conditions. Some risks of leaving varicose veins untreated include:
VENOUS LEG ULCER
In some cases, Varicose veins may result in a condition called chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Over a period, CVI further can result in what is known as a venous leg ulcer. It happens when an area of the skin breaks down and reveals the flesh underneath. The problem may get bigger over a period and lead to irritation and discomfort in the legs.
HYPERPIGMENTATION
If varicose veins left untreated, it might result in excess blood leakage into the tissues of the leg. The patient may experience inflammation and painful swelling. Moreover, a few parts of their skin may also become discolored and dark. This condition is defined as hyperpigmentation.
SPONTANEOUS BLEEDING
Varicose blood vessels tend to break down the walls of the skin after a while. This brings the veins more closely to the surface of the skin, and a slight scratch may lead to blood loss. Though the bleeding is usually painless, patients may have a considerable blood loss.
DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS
Deep Vein Thrombosis shortened as DVT is the most severe condition associated with varicose veins. DVT generally results in what is known as a pulling sensation in the legs arising out from a blood cot. It may make the patient feel as if their nerves are being pinched. If that blood clot travels up to the other body parts, it can become the life-threatening condition.
Though varicose veins can range from mild to acute, people suffering from the condition must see a certified vascular surgeon. If ignored, varicose veins can have significant consequences for the patient’s health.
Though varicose veins can range from mild to acute, people suffering from the condition must see a certified vascular surgeon. If ignored, varicose veins can have significant consequences for the patient’s health.
SUPERFICIAL THROMBOPHLEBITIS
This condition irritates veins beneath the surface of the skin. The patient may also notice redness of the skin and increase in softness of veins. This results due to decreased blood flow and weakened veins. Ongoing pain and swelling are common in this condition.
LIPODERMATOSCLEROSIS
Lipodermatosclerosis is the term for defining the hardening of the leg tissues. Generally, it occurs when muscles of legs are left inflamed for an extended period. The patient usually notices that his/her legs are becoming exceptionally tender, resulting in difficulty to move.
Do not neglect if you experience painful varicose veins as it could be a sign of serious conditions such as open sore, skin infection, and blood cot. Remember, varicose veins can get worse over time, if not treated on time – even they may create new complications.
Do not neglect if you experience painful varicose veins as it could be a sign of serious conditions such as open sore, skin infection, and blood cot. Remember, varicose veins can get worse over time, if not treated on time – even they may create new complications.
WHAT CAN YOU DO FOR VARICOSE VEINS BEFORE THEY GET WORSE
As with most conditions, prevention is given preference overtreatment; you should look for some natural and simple ways to prevent varicose veins from turning severe.
When you sit or stand in one position for a long time makes it difficult for your blood to travel into leg blood vessels against gravity. In the long run, it may cause blood to accumulate around your feet, calves, and ankles.
Regular exercise improves blood circulation and pushes accumulated blood in the veins. If you’re stuck at a desk, you can do small things like:
According to MedicalNews Today, regular exercise also manages blood pressure, which is another primary factor that contributes to Varicose Veins.
When you sit or stand in one position for a long time makes it difficult for your blood to travel into leg blood vessels against gravity. In the long run, it may cause blood to accumulate around your feet, calves, and ankles.
Regular exercise improves blood circulation and pushes accumulated blood in the veins. If you’re stuck at a desk, you can do small things like:
- Stretching your ankles
- Bending your knees
- Peddling your feet
According to MedicalNews Today, regular exercise also manages blood pressure, which is another primary factor that contributes to Varicose Veins.
DO REGULAR MASSAGE
Since most treatments start with lifestyle changes, doctors may advise patients to incorporate massage into your routine. As massage improves blood circulation, gentle massage on the affected area can help blood move through blood vessels.
For best results, patients may use moisturizer and massage oils. However, you should strictly avoid putting pressure onto the veins, as it may result in damage to fragile tissues.
For best results, patients may use moisturizer and massage oils. However, you should strictly avoid putting pressure onto the veins, as it may result in damage to fragile tissues.
KEEP THE LEGS ELEVATED
If you’re one of those persons who have to sit down for long periods, you should take out some time to keep your legs elevated. Keeping the legs elevated at the same height as the heart improves blood circulation. It also reduces the pressure in the leg veins, and gravity helps the blood to flow effortlessly to the center back.
COMPRESSION STOCKINGS
Compression stockings are used to enhance blood circulation in the legs. They apply pressure to your lower legs. Different studies suggest that compression stockings can improve symptoms of varicose veins to some extent. Since they are available in a variety of lengths and sizes, you will easily find one that fits your legs.
LASER ABLATION: EASY & EFFECTIVE MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR VARICOSE VEINS
If home-based treatments are not working for you or causing discomfort, your doctor may prescribe you laser ablation. It is one of the newest remedies for varicose veins that is less painful and offer faster recovery than traditional surgery such as stripping veins.
In this treatment, a small catheter (a thin tube) is gently inserted into the diseased veins through the skin. The catheter is equipped with a laser that releases heat on the affected vein causing it to close. The closed vein then naturally reabsorbs into the body, and blood starts flowing through healthy veins.
The goal of this treatment is to eliminate all symptoms of varicose veins. After this treatment, the patient is advised to maintain a healthy body weight.
In this treatment, a small catheter (a thin tube) is gently inserted into the diseased veins through the skin. The catheter is equipped with a laser that releases heat on the affected vein causing it to close. The closed vein then naturally reabsorbs into the body, and blood starts flowing through healthy veins.
The goal of this treatment is to eliminate all symptoms of varicose veins. After this treatment, the patient is advised to maintain a healthy body weight.
Final Thoughts
Treatment for varicose veins will depend on the seriousness of the condition. Though diet and lifestyle changes may improve the symptoms, people with severe swelling and pain must seek medical help immediately.
CONTACT US TODAY
Are you looking for vein treatment or a vein doctor near you? FSA Vein is at the forefront of varicose vein and spider vein treatments in Pomona and Rancho Cucamonga, CA. Click here to schedule your free vein consult.