Most individuals think varicose veins are just a cosmetic issue. In reality, they can be the cause of real health issues. Pain, swelling, colour changes in the skin, ulcerations, and even life-threatening conditions such as blood clots can be brought about by bulging and curved veins in the legs. They get more severe if not treated.
Knowing the risks prior helps you take the right steps to ensure your health. You might wonder, is varicose vein dangerous? That is understandable. This guide gives you knowledge of varicose vein complications and how to prevent them. Get simple and clear guidance that allows you to take charge and feel more confident regarding your condition.
About Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are the ones that are seen as dilated and swollen veins. They are situated near the surface of the skin. This usually has blue or purplish veins that appear on the feet or legs. These can cause pain, aching, or itching. Spider veins are a milder form of the disease where veins appear thread-like and are thin, red, or purple. The majority of individuals believe varicose veins are unpleasant and painful but are not harmful overall. Among the worst of them can lead to severe medical conditions, for example, blood clots. Early symptoms can be alleviated by home treatment. A few severe ones need medical treatments like sclerotherapy, laser treatment, or surgery.
Complications
Varicose veins occur due to venous insufficiency and are not just a superficial skin disease. Several complications may arise if not treated properly. Varicose vein complications need urgent care.
- Thrombophlebitis
Phlebitis is also known as thrombophlebitis. It is the condition of inflammation of veins accompanied by hard or tender clots. It is distinct from deep vein thrombosis and is usually less severe. The symptoms can include pain and redness of the involved skin.
- Bleeding
In some uncommon conditions, a sharp knock against the legs is enough to make a burst vein bleed. Blood will travel backwards and out of the vein very quickly, and it can be quite scary. Lifting the leg and applying firm pressure to it will usually stop that bleeding. Future occurrences can be prevented with a follow-up treatment.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis
Varicose veins lead to blood stagnation, which may lead to blood clots or even DVT. Superficial vein thrombosis may spread to deep veins, at times leading to dangerous conditions. This, in turn, may lead to pulmonary embolism if not treated. A doctor must take action if there is any suspicion of DVT.
- Venous Insufficiency
If blood flow is cut off for many years, oxygen and nutrient exchange are impaired. This may lead to chronic venous insufficiency and make a patient more susceptible to additional complications.
- Skin Complications and Dermatitis
Various skin problems may occur as a result of varicose veins:
- Varicose Eczema: Red, scaly, or flaky skin. These are often seen on the lower legs. This can create blisters or crusts.
- Lipodermatosclerosis: A severe condition where the skin becomes tight and can turn red or brown. It usually occurs in the calf and is usually irreversible.
- Venous Ulcers
Due to venous hypertension, fluid may be deposited in the skin and lead to ulcers, especially in the area of the ankles. Minor traumas like scratches or bites may heal more slowly, and slow healing can lead to or worsen the ulcers.
These complications emphasize the importance of varicose veins treatment in a timely manner.
Prevention
- Avoid Long Standing or Sitting
Remaining standing or sitting for an extended period makes it more difficult for blood to flow through the veins of the leg, fighting against gravity. It raises pressure within the veins, and blood accumulates close to your ankles.
Movement tends to cut down on this pressure and enhance circulation. Easy exercises such as pedaling your toes, ankle stretching, raising your legs, or bending your knees assist in blood circulation. Raising your legs over the level of the heart for 15 minutes a few times a day also assists in the better flow of blood and reduction of swelling.
- Wear Compression Stocking
Compression stockings and socks assist in supporting the valves in your veins, putting them in position so blood circulates well. It lessens pooling, swelling, and pain in your legs, relieving the usual veins in leg problems.
Night leg cramping can also be reduced by wearing compression stockings or socks the whole day. There are multiple grades of compression available. Those include mild, moderate, firm, and extra firm. Discuss with your healthcare provider about the best one to use for your condition, as it is necessary to maximise support and comfort.
- Select a Healthy Lifestyle
Some causes of varicose veins are genetic or hormonal. But the formation of healthy habits can protect your veins. A healthy diet with carbs, fibre, and protein keeps your veins healthy. Avoid salty foods to help avoid water conservation, as proper hydration enhances circulation. All these habits combined develop tougher veins and vascular health.
- Include Regular Exercise
Walking improves circulation in the legs and is the best way if you are inquiring about how to reduce varicose veins. Yoga offers exercises that elevate feet above heart level, including leg-up-the-wall or shoulder stands, which assist venous return.
Yoga also stretches the deep calf muscles, which help the venous valves work. Cycling and swimming are low-impact exercises and maintain the circulation rate at a steady level. Exercise regularly to make the muscles of the legs strong, which prevents varicose veins from occurring.
- Pregnancy and Sleeping Position
Pregnancy often results in varicose veins because of the heightened pressure and volume of blood in leg veins. Sleeping on the left side can decrease pressure on the inferior vena cava.
The role enhances circulation and may alleviate new varicose veins from developing or reduce symptoms in already present ones. The proper sleeping position promotes vein health while pregnant and reduces discomfort.
Final Words
Varicose veins are painful and may become serious health conditions if not attended to. Thus, keeping good blood flow demands timely steps and careful observation. Endovascular Care Centre provides you with the best varicose vein treatment by Dr. Kunal Arora, a Vascular and Interventional Radiologist with 9+ years of experience.
Dr. Kunal specialises in minimally invasive varicose vein treatment and conditions, such as pain relief for varicose veins. His services cover DVT, peripheral vascular disease, and much more. Dr. Kunal is well-known for giving effective care without the need for surgery. His commitment to innovation, and thorough study ensures patients receive top-quality healthcare. Trust his experienced method to protect your vein health and enhance overall health safely and effectively.
FAQs
Q. What complications of varicose veins are considered more severe?
DVT is a severe one. It leads to life-threatening pulmonary embolism. This happens if blood clots move into the lungs.
Q. What is a better treatment for varicose veins?
Laser or glue ablation treatment combined with sclerotherapy or microphlebectomy is ideal to treat the disease completely.
Q. Are you able to have a pain-free life after treatment for varicose veins?
Yes, varicose veins, once treated completely, do not tend to recur or cause serious complications. With proper lifestyle changes, you will lead a pain-free life.
