Six Reasons to Treat Varicose Veins

There are plenty of reasons to treat varicose veins. Varicose veins are not just unsightly blemishes under the skin. That is because not treating varicose veins can lead to a host of serious medical conditions. In most cases, patients who report symptoms of itchiness, fatigue, pain, discomfort in the legs, and swelling of the skin will only get worse if the patient chooses to delay seeing a medical professional. In extreme cases, however, there is a potential to develop the life-threatening conditions below.

Hyperpigmentation

The discoloration known as hyperpigmentation results when excess blood leaks into the tissues of the leg. Symptoms include painful swelling and inflammation as parts of their skin become dark.

Lipodermosclerosis

The tissues of the leg can become firm and heavy when they are left inflamed for a long period of time. In these cases, the patient may experience a feeling that their legs are becoming increasingly tender. At that point, it may become difficult to move or relax. This condition of stiffening or hardening of the leg tissues is known as Lipodermosclerosis.

Venous Leg Ulcer

Chronic venous insufficiency or CVI is a condition similar to varicose veins that occurs when blood pools in the superficial and deep leg veins.  Over time, CVI can result in the breakdown of areas of the skin to reveal the flesh underneath, signaling the formation of venous leg ulcers. Tending to get larger over time, venous leg ulcers cause pain and discomfort in the legs.

Spontaneous Bleeding

As above, varicose veins can break down the walls of the skin over time, bringing the varicose veins closer to the surface. When this happens, the slightest scratch or scrape can lead to excessive blood loss. Patients may experience significant blood loss if the condition goes untreated, even if they do not experience much pain associated with these minor injuries.

Superficial Thrombophlebitis

The weakening of the veins and decreased blood flow can also cause inflammation of the veins just beneath the surface of the skin. Called Superficial thrombophlebitis, a range of symptoms occur, including redness of the skin, an increasing tenderness of the vein, as well as ongoing pain or swelling of the legs.

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep Vein Thrombosis is the by far most serious condition related to untreated varicose veins. Patients with DVT describe a pulling sensation in the legs, stemming from a blood clot, followed by a feeling as if their nerves are being pinched. Increased redness and swelling in the legs continue, as the danger of the blood clot traveling further up the body becomes potentially life-threatening. In this case, the decision to treat varicose veins becomes a no-brainer.

As you can see, neglected varicose veins can have major implications for your health. Whether your varicose veins are mild or severe, the sooner you seek treatment, the better. Click here to schedule your vein screening today!