Usually, varicose veins are considered unsightly blemishes under the skin. However, treating these dilated blood vessels can be about more than just appearances. Leaving varicose veins untreated can lead to various medical conditions. Most patients with varicose veins report symptoms of itchiness, fatigue, pain and discomfort in the legs, and swelling of the skin. In most cases, these symptoms will only get worse if the patient chooses not to see a medical professional. Individuals that suffer from the condition should take a moment to learn about who to see for varicose veins and the dangers of leaving the condition untreated.
Why It’s Important to Treat Varicose Veins
Varicose veins result when the valves in your veins don’t work correctly. They’re too weak to allow the blood to flow from your legs up to your heart, and blood pools in your legs and the pressure builds up, creating the gnarled, puffy appearance. Leaving Varicose Veins untreated can create some complications. Varicose veins can become itchy, leading to dermatitis. You may not be able to resist scratching the area, resulting in redness and even bleeding sores. Varicose veins can also lead to the development of blood clots close to the surface of the skin, causing pain.
By treating your veins with sclerotherapy, microphlebectomy, and ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, you can head off these complications.
Below are some issues that occur when you leave your varicose veins untreated. If you have varicose veins due to a pregnancy, then click our link to learn more.
Hyperpigmentation
If left untreated, varicose veins usually result in excess blood leaking into the tissues of the leg. The patient will experience painful swelling and inflammation as parts of their skin become dark and discolored. This condition is known as hyperpigmentation.
Lipodermosclerosis
When the tissues of the leg are left inflamed for a long period of time, the tissues become firm and heavy. The patient might feel that their legs are becoming increasingly tender, making it more difficult to move or relax. Lipodermatosclerosis is the term used to define the stiffening or hardening of the leg tissues.
Venous Leg Ulcer
Varicose veins usually result in a condition known as chronic venous insufficiency or CVI. Over time, CVI can result in what’s known as a venous leg ulcer. This is when an area of the skin breaks down to reveal the flesh underneath. Venous leg ulcers tend to get larger over time, leading to increased discomfort and irritation in the legs.
Superficial Thrombophlebitis
Superficial thrombophlebitis is a condition that involves the inflammation of the veins just beneath the surface of the skin. This results from the weakening of the veins and decreased blood flow. The patient may experience 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 most serious condition related to varicose veins. DVT usually results in what’s known as a pulling sensation in the legs, stemming from a blood clot. The patient may feel as if their nerves are being pinched with increased redness and swelling in the legs. If the blood clot travels further up the body, the condition could be life-threatening.
While varicose veins can range from mild to severe, those that suffer from the condition should contact a doctor that specializes in vascular health. If neglected, varicose veins can have major implications for the patient’s health.
Choose Coastal Vascular Center
If you’re asking yourself, “how can I get rid of this unsightly veins?”, contact Coastal Vascular Center today.
Dr. Ayar, specializes in treating varicose and spider veins. You should treat your condition because there could be an underlying health condition. Treating your veins should be a priority. Call Coastal Vascular Center today to learn about your treatment options.
