When to Call a Vein Doctor for Varicose Veins
Posted: Tuesday, April 22, 2014 | Revised: April 2, 2014
If you have enlarged, twisted, or discolored veins just underneath the surface of your skin, you may have varicose veins. Caused by weak valves and veins, this condition is most common in the legs and ankles, where veins must work harder to push blood back up to the heart. When the valves do not work well, blood may pool in the legs and ankles, increasing pressure on the veins. This causes the veins to swell.
Varicose veins are common, and only vascular surgeons can determine whether there is an underlying, more serious problem such as deep vein thrombosis.
What Are the Signs of Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins do not always cause troublesome symptoms; some people have the unsightly appearance with no discomfort. Other individuals experience mild symptoms such as:
* General swelling in the feet or ankles
* Itching in the area of the affected vein
* A burning, aching, tired, heavy, or painful sensation in the legs, often worse after sitting or standing for a long period of time
More advanced symptoms may include:
* Swelling or calf pain after sitting or standing for a long period of time
* Leg swelling
* Skin changes, such as dryness, thinning, scaling, inflammation, or changes in color
* Open sores or bleeding easily after a minor injury
When Should I Call a Vein Doctor?
In many cases, varicose veins are not a serious health problem. However, if you have varicose veins and experience any of the following changes, then you should visit a vein clinic for evaluation:
* The skin over a varicose vein bleeds easily upon injury or even without provocation. If this occurs, stop the bleeding by elevating the leg and applying pressure to the vein.
* Your leg suddenly becomes painful and swollen. This suggests that you might have a blood clot in a deeper vein, which requires immediate medical attention.
* Your leg develops a tender lump. This could be inflammation or a clot, which usually isn’t dangerous but might need treatment.
* You develop an ulcer (open sore) on your leg.
* Your varicose vein symptoms do not improve with home treatment, or you are concerned about the symptoms.
If you have questions about varicose veins, Michigan vein doctors are available to assess your situation and recommend the best treatment plan for you.