Varicose veins are common and are usually found in adults. While some individuals can live with varicose veins without a problem, others might require varicose vein treatment should a complication arise.
So, this begs the question: how serious are varicose veins and when should you worry about them?
In this blog, we will explore the answers to these questions in more detail – keep reading below.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Veins that are enlarged and twisted due to increased blood pressure are commonly referred to as varicose veins. These veins bulge out, and when touched, you can feel the bumps over your skin. More often than not, varicose veins can be found in the legs and are more common in women and older adults.
Symptoms
While varicose veins can sometimes be left alone (though this doesn’t mean that they will go away), some people do experience symptoms that can affect their day-to-day activities. This includes:
- Tenderness
- Muscle cramping
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Swelling
- Dry and/or itchy skin
- Leg heaviness
If you are unable to find relief from your symptoms, it is important that you speak to your doctor. You should also seek medical attention if you notice any of the following:
- Bleeding veins
- Persistent pain and swelling
- Painful veins
- Shortness of breath
- Lightheadedness
Health Risks
Varicose veins are notorious for their ability to worsen over time, even if you don’t initially experience any side effects. However, most of the time, varicose veins aren’t life-threatening. Nonetheless, it can lead to (rare) complications, such as:
- Blood clots – increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism
- Ulcers near varicose veins
- Bleeding close to the skin
If your symptoms are disrupting your everyday life, it’s recommended that you consult with your doctor about whether varicose vein treatment is suitable for you. Remember – varicose veins can be serious, so it’s crucial that you take the necessary precautions to treat them before they worsen.
At Lumina Interventional Radiology, we provide professional varicose vein treatment should symptoms affect your daily life. Rest assured that our methods are minimally invasive and offer a quick recovery time. Get in touch with us today for a consultation about your condition and whether varicose vein treatment is best for your needs.
