Those bulging varicose veins aren’t just skin deep; they could be a warning sign of a more serious issue beneath the surface. A sign of a venous condition called chronic venous insufficiency, these swollen, twisted veins, often appearing on the legs, can cause discomfort, interfere with daily activities, and even lead to serious health concerns like leg ulcers or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) if left untreated.
This blog explores five clear signs that your varicose veins might need attention from a healthcare professional. Whether you’re noticing your first signs of varicose veins or have been dealing with persistent symptoms over the years, understanding when to seek medical attention is crucial for overall health.
1. Persistent Leg Pain and Discomfort
According to Mount Sinai, venous insufficiency (also known as vein disease) occurs when weakened vein walls and damaged valves impair blood flow from the legs back to the heart, causing veins to remain filled with blood, especially while standing.
Symptoms of vein disease include dull aching, heaviness, cramping, itching, tingling, and pain that worsens with standing but improves when the legs are elevated. This vein condition is considered chronic (that is, it lasts a long time or recurs) and may lead to complications if left untreated. This discomfort can interfere with daily activities and worsen over time.
Risk factors for varicose vein disease include:
If you find at-home remedies like diet, exercise, herbals, elevating your legs, over-the-counter pain relievers, or compression stockings aren’t helping relieve leg discomfort, it’s time to consult a vein expert. They can diagnose the underlying vein disease and recommend appropriate vein treatment options.
Wondering if your leg symptoms could be a sign of vein disease? Take the first step toward clarity with our quick and easy Self-Assessment. You can identify potential risk factors and symptoms that may indicate a vein condition in just a few minutes. Remember: The first step in getting better is getting started.
2. Noticeable Swelling in Your Legs or Ankles
Swelling in the legs and ankles, particularly by the end of the day, is a hallmark of venous insufficiency. This swelling occurs because of blood pooling in the lower extremities due to poor vein function.
If swelling persists, it could lead to skin changes or even ulcers—serious complications of untreated vein problems. When swelling doesn’t respond to elevation or home remedies, it’s a strong sign you need help from a vein doctor.
3. Skin Changes or Open Sores
If untreated, varicose veins can lead to noticeable changes in the skin, including:
In severe cases, you may develop ulcers—open sores that are painful and slow to heal. These symptoms are more than just uncomfortable—they indicate advanced vein disease.
Skin changes and ulcers require immediate attention from a vein specialist, as they can increase your risk of infection or other complications.
The warning signs of venous insufficiency—like leg discomfort, swelling, or skin changes—should never be ignored! At Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), we’re experts in identifying and treating vein disorders before they lead to serious complications. With convenient locations and a patient-first approach, we make getting the care you need easy.
Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.
4. Bleeding or Blood Clots in Varicose Veins
If you’ve noticed your varicose veins bleeding after a minor bump or scratch, it’s a sign they’ve become overly enlarged and fragile. Spontaneously bleeding leg veins is dangerous and requires prompt medical attention.
Another serious issue is deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot that can form in veins weakened by venous insufficiency. Symptoms of DVT include swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected leg. If left untreated, blood clots can travel to the lungs and cause a life-threatening condition known as a pulmonary embolism (PE).
Center for Vein Restoration offers a DVT rule-out service for individuals who suspect they have a DVT. This one-stop management approach includes a scan and treatment anticoagulation, education, and follow-up if needed. Call the DVT hotline at 877-SCAN-DVT (877-722-6388).
5. Significant Cosmetic Concerns
While many seek help for the physical discomfort of varicose veins, the emotional toll can be just as significant. Varicose veins and spider veins—the smaller, web-like red or blue veins visible on the skin’s surface—can affect confidence and cause one to “hide” behind layers of clothing.
Although cosmetic concerns alone aren’t typically life-threatening, seeking advice from a board-certified vein doctor is still valuable. Minimally invasive treatment can address cosmetic concerns while improving your vein health.
Modern medicine offers a range of advanced, office-based treatments to alleviate symptoms and improve the appearance of varicose veins:
Our skilled CVR vein specialists combine cutting-edge technology with compassionate care to deliver personalized treatments that work. Take control of your vein health and schedule an appointment now HERE.
If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, don’t delay. Ignoring varicose veins can lead to more serious health concerns. Early intervention not only alleviates discomfort but also prevents complications.
CVR boasts clean, safe, accredited facilities with experienced vein doctors to ensure you receive the best care.
Your legs deserve expert care from a name you can trust. As the largest physician-led vein center in the nation, the vascular surgeons at Center for Vein Restoration have helped countless patients overcome the danger of bleeding veins and find relief from the discomfort of varicose veins.
Taking care of your vein health is essential for your physical well-being and quality of life. If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned—whether it’s persistent pain, swelling, skin changes, or cosmetic concerns—don’t wait to seek expert care. With 110+ locations nationwide, finding a Center for Vein Restoration vein clinic near you is easy.
With our extensive network of clinics across America and a patient-first approach, relief has never been more accessible. Schedule your appointment HERE or call 240-965-3915 to get started.
Your legs will thank you!
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