Though most people eliminate varicose veins to minimize the aesthetic nuisance, the affected veins might also result in severe health conditions like pulmonary embolism. According to Sebring varicose veins specialists at Florida Lakes Surgical, covering up the problem instead of seeking professional treatment may worsen the situation over time. The good news is, your doctor can recommend treatment to deal with the unsightly veins. Your treatment will depend on the type of varicose vein, your condition’s severity, and your medical history.
Should you worry about varicose veins?
You are unlikely to develop severe health conditions because of varicose veins. Though complications might be rare, you are likely to develop issues like blood clots, ulcers on your skin surface close to the affected vein, and minor bleeding, usually close to your skin.
However, varicose veins increase your risks of developing other complications including:
· Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)- you will most likely develop DVT when a blood clot occurs in one of your deep veins, mainly in your lower leg or thigh.
· Pulmonary embolism– This is a life-threatening condition when a blood clot disintegrates and goes to your lungs.
Though varicose veins should not cause you so much concern, you should look out for signs like:
· A burning or itching sensation around the affected vein
· A throb or pain around the vein
· Muscle cramping
· Pain, especially when you sit or stand for extensive hours
· Leg fatigue and heaviness
· Dry skin
When should you seek professional help with varicose veins?
When you fail to contact your doctor for professional help, blood in the affected veins continues to pool, worsening your situation. Therefore, failure to seek medical attention might lead to:
· Muscle weakness- over time, varicose veins may result in leg weakness. As a result, you may feel tired more often with severe symptoms. Muscle weakness will be a hindrance, especially if you are an active individual with a demanding lifestyle.
· Ulcers- you are at a higher risk of developing ulcers when you delay seeking a professional evaluation of the varicose veins. Additionally, the ulcers are likely to bleed, making it hard for them to heal.
· Increased pain- your veins continue to get affected the more you delay seeking medical help, worsening the pain and swelling on your legs.
Therefore, you should not hesitate to contact your doctor for an evaluation when the affected veins:
· Start bleeding
· Feel hot and painful
· Start swelling
· Start showing dark patches, sores, or ulcers
How can you minimize your chances of developing varicose veins?
Though there is little you can do to prevent varicose veins from developing, you can slow your chances of having the veins by:
· Exercising daily to enhance blood circulation and minimize the chances of blood pooling in your legs
· Watch your weight to help lower the pressure you exert on your veins
· Minimize your salt intake to minimize your risk of fluid retention and high blood pressure
· Do not sit or stand for extensive hours
· If you are a smoker, cut down on nicotine because the substance restricts your blood flow, weakening your blood vessels’ inner linings and increasing your risk of developing blood clots.
Though varicose veins might be harmless, failure to seek medical evaluation may worsen your situation, prolonging your symptoms. Contact your doctor to learn more about the available treatment options for varicose veins.
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