Varicose veins are more than a cosmetic issue. While their enlarged appearance might make some people feel self-conscious, varicose veins are a medical concern that indicates a circulation issue and potentially other health problems.
As you explore procedures to address vein disease, understand the related health risks.
Causes of Varicose Veins
Varicose veins occur when the valves in superficial leg veins malfunction. Weakened or damaged vein valves lead to a backflow of blood, causing it to pool in the legs and the veins to expand. This results in an enlarged, twisted appearance, often accompanied by pain.
Multiple factors contribute to the development of varicose veins, including:
- Age: Changes in blood vessels and muscles can increase likelihood of varicose veins.
- Genetics: You’re more likely to develop varicose veins with a family history of them.
- Weight: If you are overweight or obese, the excess places more pressure and strain on your lower body.
- Activity Level: Whether your job requires you to stand for long periods of time or you lead a sedentary lifestyle, these factors restrict how blood moves through your veins.
Health Complications
Without proper treatment, varicose veins can lead to the following health complications.
Skin Ulcers
You’re more likely to develop ulcers if you have varicose veins. Ulcers are characterized by discoloration, often around the ankles, before the skin breaks and forms a sore.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Varicose veins may increase your risk for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – when clots form within deeper veins and alter your body’s primary blood flow. DVT also increase your likelihood of experiencing a pulmonary embolism.
Bleeding and Bruising
Venous insufficiency causes blood to pool in the legs. Over time, this increased pressure can cause a varicose vein to bleed. If a bruise or cut leads to bleeding, understand it will take longer to stop and you may need to seek medical attention.
Swelling
Varicose veins create a greater backflow in your legs which increases pressure, causing fluid to leak out from the vein walls and contributes to swelling. This change can be related to inflammation and you may feel a tight or heavy sensation in your lower legs.
Infections
The prominent appearance of varicose veins can alter skin composition. Over time, these areas may look thinner yet harder and more purple, blue or brown. When the skin becomes less protective, you’re at increased risk for bacteria to enter and cause an infection.
Eczema
Other changes to the skin include eczema, brought on by restricted blood flow. Specifically related to varicose veins, these inflamed areas can appear red, purple or brown and have a scaly or otherwise textured appearance.
Lipodermatosclerosis
Hardening can also indicate lipodermatosclerosis, a condition characterized by an inflamed layer of fat below the skin. You may see dents above the ankles, discoloration and swelling.
Are you concerned about varicose veins? Whether you’re looking to manage symptoms or related health risks, the Vein Centers of Connecticut have multiple treatment options. To learn more, contact us today.