What Happens If You Don't Treat Varicose Veins?
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are bulging, unsightly leg veins that are right under the skin. Up to 30% of people have this vein disease. Learn more about the symptoms, risk factors, treatment and complications here.
More Than a Cosmetic Issue
Every so often, varicose veins are perceived as a cosmetic concern. The majority of our clients are women who want to reduce or diminish the appearance of unsightly veins that are stopping them from showing their shapely legs and calves. Yet, it turns out that these curly blue eyesores could actually lead to very serious health problems.
Hidden health issues to be aware of if varicose veins are left untreated:
Leg Swelling:
Fluid from blood leaks into the surrounding area, causing swelling because of excessive pressure within the veins. Swelling can appear as a tight sensation in your skin or it can be a mark left on your legs after wearing tight clothes or shoes. In worse conditions, your legs might be too swollen to fit the shoe, and there can be yellow fluid leaking. Leg swelling can be treated by conservative therapy which includes wearing compression stocks, elevating legs, exercising, etc.
Skin Ulcers
Skin Ulcers happen when the broken, open wound can't be healed completely. Swollen tissues prevent the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the other tissues, which results in non-healing ulcers.
Skin Infection
Skin infection is the consequent result of swollen tissue. Because tissues are stretched, bacteria can get into our body, causing skin infection. The infection can be easily spotted by its redness and burning area. To treat skin infection, medication or swelling lessening will be needed.
Bleeding
When the vein is broken, a significant amount of blood will start pouring out. For a large wound, the bleeding might take longer than to stop.
Thrombophlebitis
A blood clot is a common complication in varicose veins. The affected area becomes painful, and the vein can become hard.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
You probably know by now that varicose veins occur due to blood pooling within the veins due to valves that do not seem to function well. Apart from blood, blood clots could actually be trapped within the veins, particularly in the pelvic and leg area. This condition is referred to as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). DVT becomes life-threatening when a blood clot dislodges itself from a vein and makes its way to the lungs, heart, and other vital organs. Stroke, heart attack, breathing problems, and other medical emergencies are the common consequences of a dislodged blood clot. The main characteristics of DVT include chronic leg pain, redness, swelling, and skin that feels warm to the touch.
Varicose Vein Treatments in South Dakota, Minnesota and Iowa
If you or someone you know experience any of these symptoms, we urge you to visit any one of our clinics for a FREE screening.
Physicians Vein Clinics employs advanced technologies in the diagnosis and treatment of vein problems, complemented with compassionate patient care which results in positive outcomes. Schedule an initial consultation with us by calling 888-782-8346. We look forward to helping you!