Varicose Veins Bleeding

Undoubtedly, varicose veins can be very painful and most people are embarrassed by their appearance. In addition to pain, other symptoms may include itching, redness, and dryness of the affected areas. Cramps, excessive bleeding, and slow healing are complications of the condition. Yes, you read it right; bleeding is one of the complications of varicose veins. Have you ever wondered why varicose vein bleeds?

Let us dig this little deeper for you and tell you everything about varicose vein bleeding.

Varicose veins are weaker and less efficient than healthy veins. Because they can’t effectively pump blood upwards, blood pools in the leg, placing more pressure on the veins and causing them to become larger and more fragile. As a result, varicose and spider veins are prone to sudden rupture, causing spontaneous bleeding.

Because varicose veins are just below the surface, a slight injury to the skin overlying the vein can cause bleeding as well. Just scratching the legs too hard or brushing up against furniture can be enough to cause a break. This bleeding can occur at any time, but it’s more likely to happen during a warm shower when the veins are more dilated. Patients also report bleeding incidents occurring at night.

What to Expect from a Bleeding Varicose Vein

Because veins contain more blood than capillaries, the varicose vein bleeding isn’t like pricking your finger — the volume can actually be surprisingly high. In fact, patients sometimes think they have ruptured an artery, as the blood may pulsate from the vein.

Varicose vein bleeding is typically sudden, too, catching patients off guard and upending activities. This can be disconcerting, especially if it happens in public.

How to Treat Varicose Vein Bleeding

Typically, minor bleeds can be resolved by applying gentle pressure. If possible, you should sit or lay down so that the leg is higher than the heart. But if the bleeding doesn’t stop or seems severe, you should immediately call or go to the emergency room.

For some patients, varicose vein bleeding can actually become dangerous. Patients on blood thinners and older patients – who have thinner, more delicate skin – are especially susceptible to blood loss. Pregnant women must be especially cautious, as bleeding can quickly lead to serious medical situations.

After receiving medical care, your doctor may recommend you stay off your feet to keep the wound from reopening. Avoid touching or removing the scab, as this can retrigger bleeding.

Treat Your Veins to Prevent Bleeding

The only sure way to avoid spontaneous varicose vein bleeding is to have your veins treated by a professional. Don’t wait until you find yourself in an embarrassing or even dangerous situation.

If you or someone you know has experienced bleeding from a superficial varicose vein, it is important to see a vein specialist.  Prevention is key; through appropriate diagnosis and treatment, sudden bleeding from a bulging varicose or spider vein can be avoided.