Emergency Varicose Vein Surgery in Alaska during COVID-19
Treating Varicose Vein Emergencies During State Re-Openings
If you've had to postpone treatment of varicose veins, you're not alone. In the wake of COVID-19, millions of people have canceled or rescheduled medical procedures to treat varicose veins. For the most part, it's OK to postpone treatment. You can treat symptoms at home until vein clinics reopen. But sometimes, varicose veins require emergency intervention. Symptoms that require immediate attention include:
- Heavy bleeding that won't stop,
- Infected skin ulcers or wounds,
- Swelling, intense pain or warmth on the leg that could indicate blood clots.
What to Do When a Varicose Vein Bursts
Varicose veins aren't strong and healthy like a normal vein. Therefore, they can easily rupture and bleed. Even the slightest scrape against a piece of furniture or cabinet can cause these fragile veins to burst. They often burst under the surface of your skin so you won't see blood, but will notice bruising and you may feel light-headed. Blood thinning medications increase the risk of a burst varicose vein. If a varicose vein bursts, apply pressure to stop the bleeding. If you can't get the bleeding to stop in this manner, contact a vein specialist or go to your nearest emergency room.
How To Stop Varicose Veins from Bleeding
Varicose veins can occur anywhere in the body, but frequently occur in the legs. They are also often superficial, meaning they sit close to the surface of the skin. Therefore, it's quite easy to strike your leg against a hard surface and cause one of these fragile veins to burst and bleed. You may also accidentally puncture a vein during a routine grooming activity like shaving. If bleeding occurs, put a soft cloth or gauze over the wound and apply steady pressure for several minutes. You should also elevate your leg. If bleeding doesn't stop or if you feel faint, have chest pains or trouble bleeding, proceed to an emergency room.
Call By Phone For An Appointment or Immediate Help
If you are experiencing a varicose vein emergency, please give us a call at 240-965-3915. Our physicians at the Center for Vein Restoration are available to treat emergency cases even during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are also happy to arrange tele-medicine appointments for non-emergent questions about your vein health.
In the meantime, take some time to meet our vein physician in Anchorage or Fairbanks, AK and learn details about our Alaska locations. We look forward to hearing from you soon!