Why Varicose Veins Aren't Just a Cosmetic Problem

Varicose veins are a red flag for more serious problems. Luckily, Center for Vein Restoration operates two clinics in the Phoenix area to cure those unsightly veins.

One benefit of living in Arizona is year-round summertime. Unlike residents of colder states, Arizonians can ditch the pants and wear shorts and skirts everyday. But if you have varicose veins, you may shy away from wearing shorts, choosing instead to cover up and feel the heat.

Although you may think that’s an acceptable trade-off, varicose veins are more than merely a cosmetic nuisance. Those twisted, swollen veins can potentially signal a more serious underlying health condition. Fortunately, it’s one that can be successfully treated at one of two Center for Vein Restoration locations in the Phoenix area.

Why Varicose Veins Are a Serious Medical Issue

Varicose veins represent one manifestation of chronic venous insufficiency, an umbrella term for a breakdown in the body’s circulatory system. In other words, varicose veins indicate your veins aren’t working properly, specifically because tiny flaps in the leg veins have lost the strength to push blood back to the heart after it has flowed through the veins. Unable to move the blood against the downward force of gravity in the legs, the blood becomes trapped inside the vein, eventually leading to bulging ropes of veins appearing on the legs. Even if those veins don’t cause you any significant discomfort, they could lead to other health problems in the future, including:

Pain and Swelling. Most people with varicose veins don’t report any noticeable symptoms. But many experience pain, swelling, cramping, and heaviness that greatly diminishes their quality of life. If you’ve tried at-home remedies such as compression stockings and elevating your legs daily and still feel discomfort, it’s time to see a vein specialist for treatment.

Bleeding. Varicose veins usually emerge in the veins closest to the skin’s surface, which means they’re vulnerable to a slight bump or scratch that leads to profuse bleeding after the vein bursts. Applying a towel or gauze against the vein will stop the bleeding, but only temporarily. Once the bleeding has stopped, you’ll still need medical attention for a burst varicose vein.

Sores. Persistent swelling from varicose veins takes a toll on the skin, stretching it to its limit. As the skin thins and becomes increasingly irritated, it will eventually break open and form open sores. These wounds, if left untreated, could become infected. At that point, treatment is necessary.

Blood Clots. Whenever your blood doesn’t flow smoothly, the chances of a blood clot increase as blood cells clump together in the vein. This could lead to a potentially dangerous blood clot in the leg known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). If the clot breaks away from the leg vein and travels to the lung, it could cause a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. One recent study found that people who had varicose veins had a higher risk of DVT. Always be alert for signs of DVT, including swelling, pain, and inflamed skin on the leg — all of which indicate a possible clot and the need for immediate medical intervention.

Visit a Vein Specialist in the Phoenix Area

Looking for a nearby vein specialist to treat your varicose veins? Whether your varicose veins are causing you extreme discomfort or you just want to wear your summer clothes everyday, Center for Vein Restoration operates two convenient locations in the Phoenix area:

1500 S. Dobson Road

Suite 310

Mesa, AZ 85202

3509 S. Mercy Road

Suite 101

Gilbert, AZ 85297

Both offices are served by veteran surgeon and phlebotomy specialist Dr. Nick Morrison, FACS, FACPh. Dr. Morrison has been a medical professional in the Phoenix area since 1977. He has been certified by the American Board of Surgery and is a Diplomate by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine. With his wealth of experience and knowledge, Dr. Morrison helps each patient find the right treatment for their varicose veins. Contact him today for a consultation.