If you have varicose veins and don’t treat the veins, you may develop more serious problems. You might get blood clots, leading to pain and swelling in your leg. The clots could also travel to your lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism when a blood clot blocks an artery in the lungs. So, when you notice you have Tomball varicose veins, make an appointment to see your doctor.
To learn more, you must know what varicose veins are.
What are varicose veins?
The veins are enlarged and twisted, usually appearing on the legs. Poor circulation is the most common cause of varicose veins. Weak valves can cause the condition in the veins, allowing blood to flow backward instead of forward. This results in the pooling of blood in the veins, which enlarges and twists the veins. Still, other factors such as obesity, pregnancy, and standing for long periods can also contribute to the development of these veins.
When varicose veins are left untreated, these are the complication you can experience:
Blood clots
If you have varicose veins, you are more likely to develop blood clots than the average person. Blood clots usually form in your legs’ deeper veins, which is why they are also known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
A DVT is a medical condition in which a blood clot forms in a vein, usually in the leg. Symptoms of a DVT include pain, swelling, and redness in the affected area. If the clot breaks free and travels to your lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism (PE). PE is a severe condition that can be fatal.
Skin changes
The skin around the affected area may become thin and dry if you have varicose veins. You may also develop ulcers and open wounds that don’t heal properly. You need to understand that varicose veins can also cause the skin around the affected area to turn a brownish color.
Bleeding
Varicose veins can sometimes bleed, especially if you have an ulcer. While most bleeding is not serious, you should always contact your doctor if you experience any bleeding from your varicose veins.
Infection
If you have varicose veins, you are at a higher risk of developing an infection in the affected area. The most common type of infection is cellulitis, a bacterial infection of the skin. Your doctor can prescribe antibiotics to treat this infection.
Swelling
If you have varicose veins, you may experience swelling in your legs. The swelling is usually worse at the end of the day. It can also be worse if you have been standing or walking for long periods.
When you consult your doctor, they can recommend these treatment options:
- Sclerotherapy: This procedure involves injecting a solution into the affected veins. The solution can damage the vein’s lining, causing it to collapse and eventually disappear.
- Endovenous laser therapy: This minimally invasive procedure uses lasers to heat and destroy the affected veins.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected veins. This is typically done as an outpatient procedure.
If you have varicose veins, it is important to consult your doctor at Cardiovascular Institute, P.A., to discuss your treatment options.
