Typical Signs of Varicose Vein Issues
Varicose veins are an issue that both men and women struggle with. The condition is one where the veins of the body twist and become enlarged around the surface of the skin. This is a common occurrence and usually takes place in the leg area, sometimes near the ankles. Varicose veining can lead to health issues.
Varicose veining can be treated by a physician but individuals need to determine if this is the issue they face. There are many signs that point to this issue, but would have to be evaluated by a doctor to confirm the existence of varicose veins. When the valves of the veins weaken, the blood begins to collect and build pressure. This causes the veins to become weak and the twisting occurs.
Varicose veining can be heredity and as you age, the risk becomes higher of suffering from this condition. Anyone who is overweight or pregnant can be at a higher risk of developing this issue. Standing for long periods of time can also lead to vein problems.
Below are a few common symptoms of varicose veining:
• Veins that are dark blue, appear swollen and twisted below the skin surface
• Burning, aching, tiredness or pain in legs. This pain can be more intense after sitting or standing for a long period.
• Feet and ankle swelling
• Vein begins to itch
More serious symptoms:
• Swelling of the entire leg
• Swelling with calf pain, after sitting or standing for long period
• Changes to the skin such as:
• Color
• Dry/thinning
• Inflammation
• Scaling effect
• Bleeding after leg injury or open sores on leg area
If you believe you are suffering from varicose veining, you need to have the condition diagnosed by a physician. A diagnosis process is fairly simple. A doctor will review the leg and feet area and look for physical signs of varicose veining. Tender areas will be checked for as well as swelling, color changes, etc. An effected individual may need further testing to discover the extent of the varicose vein issue. A type of sonogram is conducted on the affected area to view the vein below the skin surface. The doctor will be able to see the blood flow of the vein and determine if the blood is flowing properly or backwards, which is a sign of varicose veins.
If you are subject to this condition, there are several treatment methods.
For mild cases, the following treatments are suggested:
• Compression stockings
• Propping up the legs
• Avoidance of standing or sitting for extended periods of time
• Exercise
If the case of varicose veining is more serious, minimally invasive treatments may be needed. This could include:
• Sclerotherpy (closes the vein)
• Laser treatment (destroys the vein)
• Radiofrequency (closes the vein)
• Surgery (remove or tie off the vein)
A physician will be able to review the area affected and determine the type of treatment needed for the type of varicose veining problem. A patient may first be asked to try the milder treatments to see if the issue is resolved. If this treatment option does not work, then a more serious option may be chosen. The physician will of course discuss each treatment option and help you determine which minimally invasive option to try. In most cases, these options work with one treatment though some may involve multiple visits. As a varicose veining issue persists, more treatment is needed, so it is suggested that patients receive treatment as quickly as possible.