uncover your legs - learning about varicose vein treatmentsuncover your legs - learning about varicose vein treatments

If you have varicose veins and therefore wear pants, tights or camouflaging makeup over them, it's important to know that they can be much more than simply a cosmetic issue. In fact, in some instances, those enlarged veins could be life threatening and there is the also the potential for permanent scarring. As a result, if you have one or more varicose veins, even if they are not yet causing pain or discomfort, it is best to discuss the following details with your physician at your earliest convenience.

You Can Develop Blood Clots

Once you realize that varicose veins can twist, turn and swell, it's easy to see how a blood clot can form within them. The presence of blood clots, also known as thrombophlebitis, can dramatically improve the possibility of other health concerns occurring. In addition, if you ever experience a serious complication of varicose veins, it is commonly believed that you are at a higher risk of recurrence of that issue in the future. By extension, you should work with your physician to address any other varicose veins you might notice.

For instance, you might be surprised to learn that what seems like a minor blood clot can actually be a pulmonary embolism, which is a blood clot in the lungs. One out of every three people who experience a pulmonary embolism die from it. Therefore, it's easy to see why getting a medical evaluation of the problem is essential.

You Might Experience Skin Ulcers Near The Impaired Vein

The intense pressure within the vein over a prolonged period of time can lead to venous leg ulcers, which can be both painful and unattractive. They often manifest on the inside of one or both legs, near the ankle and early symptoms include pain, itching, and swelling. Eventually, you might see a discoloration of the skin and you might also notice that the area in questions seems tough or stiff to the touch. In some instances, the wound itself might produce a pus-like substance, which can present with a strong and unpleasant aroma. 

Treatment options include the use of anti-inflammatory medications, both over-the-counter and prescriptions, as well as controlled and applied heat to the affected area. In addition, managing blood flow to the cleaned, dressed wound with compression stockings or a similar, snug device is often helpful. Elevation of the leg and surgical intervention to remove the affected vein are commonly recommended.  Antibiotics may be necessary if an infection is present and when properly cared for, venous leg ulcers usually heal within about four months. 

In conclusion, varicose veins have the potential to cause a variety of health concerns if they are left untreated. Therefore, it's a good idea to be aware of the information shared above and to discuss your situation with your doctor or a vein specialist as soon as you can.