Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Written by Dallas Vein Specialists on March 11, 2015
For individuals with noticeable varicose veins, the problem does not typically go undetected and is often a point of aesthetic or even medical concern for them. However, some individuals who are not familiar with the condition may not recognize the blue knotted-looking veins that are visible underneath the skin’s surface. Varicose veins may occur in areas of the body that one may not notice, such as the back of the thigh and calf.
Symptoms
Varicose veins are visible and bulging underneath the skin’s surface. They look like dark purple or blue twisted cords and measure at least 3-mm in diameter. Varicose veins may or may not be painful. Often, patients with varicose veins will complain of symptoms of the whole leg or a sizable area of the thigh or calf. Additional symptoms of varicose veins include:
- A heavy or aching sensation in the leg
- Throbbing, burning, swelling, fatigue, restlessness, cramping and itching
- An increase in pain after standing or sitting for long periods of time
- Skin changes including dermatitis, erosions, dark staining of the skin and even painful draining ulcers. These skin changes are almost always seen at the lower leg, ankle and foot. (Any patient with an open sore, or ulcer, that fails to heal promptly should be evaluated by a physician without delay.)
What to Do If You Notice Varicose Veins
Varicose veins will progress and increasingly involve more of the leg over time, in most patients. In some, varicose veins will progress to the point that they cause damage to the skin and the soft tissues of the lower leg. Those with varicose veins should be evaluated early to help prevent the condition from progressing as well as any associated complications. Young women with varicose veins should have treatment before becoming pregnant, or, if varicose veins appear with the first pregnancy, treatment should be a priority before the next pregnancy. It is a fact that varicose veins will increase in severity with each pregnancy.
The modern treatment of varicose veins is minimally invasive, safe and allows for a rapid recovery and return to usual activities. With this in mind, I find no reason for a patient to suffer the symptoms or the appearance of varicose veins of the legs.
At Dallas Vein Specialists, the modern and minimally invasive treatments are used daily to rid patients of varicose veins and the associated symptoms. The patients usually return to usual activities within one to two days, with minimal discomfort. Healing is rapid, and patients are left with excellent cosmetic results. One may learn more about these treatments by visiting the Dallas Vein Specialists website