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Vericose Vein Problems

When someone has varicose veins it means that the valves inside the vein that are designed to keep blood moving toward the heart have become defective, causing blood to settle in the vein. The collection of blood in a vein causes it to expand. For some people varicose veins are little more than an aesthetic concern. While varicose veins don't normally cause serious medical problems, complications such as pain, blood clots or skin ulcers can occur.

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  1. Who's at Risk?

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, varicose veins most often occur in adults between the ages of 30 and 70. The older you are, the greater the risk.

      People who are obese or stand for long periods of time are more apt to develop varicose veins.

      Pregnant women and women in general are more prone to the condition than men.

    Identifying Varicose Veins

    • Varicose veins are easy to spot. Varicose veins are blue, green or dark purple in color. The enlarged veins look warped and protrude and may resemble cords. The veins most commonly affected are those in your legs and feet.

    Pain

    • Although it is rare, sometimes varicose veins can be painful. You may have an achy or heavy feeling in your legs. The muscles in your lower legs may cramp and swell, and you may notice a burning or throbbing sensation. The discomfort associated with varicose veins may get worse after standing or sitting for an extended period of time.

    Skin Ulcers

    • Varicose veins can result in skin ulcers (crater-like lesions on the skin) on the lower part of the leg, close to the ankle. Ulcers are caused by long-term fluid buildup that increases the pressure of blood in the affected veins. A brown-colored spot on the skin usually begins prior to the formation of the ulcer. Skin ulcers can be an indication of a severe type of vascular disease that calls for prompt medical attention.

    Swelling

    • When veins deep inside the legs expand, there may be significant swelling in the affected leg. Elevating the leg can help reduce swelling.

    Possible Complications

    • An abrupt swelling in the leg may be indicative of a blood clot (thrombophlebitis) and requires immediately medical attention.

      Another possible complication associated with varicose veins is phlebitis, a chronic inflammation of the vein. There is also a possibility that a varicose vein will rupture. Both conditions require professional medical care.

      Finally, varicose veins may indicate an individual has a higher risk of other circulatory problems.

    Treatment

    • In the majority of instances self-care, such as elevating your legs, wearing compression stockings and getting adequate amounts of exercise, can lessen the pain of varicose veins.

      If your pain gets worse or if you are merely concerned with the appearance of your legs, contact your doctor to discuss other treatment options.

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