Varicose veins are a common condition where the veins become enlarged and twisted, often appearing as bulging cords on the legs. While many people may not experience any symptoms, some patients will notice a range of side effects that can impact their daily life.
Learning about the most common and important side effects and symptoms of varicose veins can arm you with some knowledge that will be of a great deal of help later on. Armed with that knowledge you can try effective home treatments, talk to your doctor without misunderstanding their advice, and know when to visit a specialist.
So let’s take a closer look at each issue associated with varicose veins and why they are so important:
- Pain and discomfort are perhaps the most common side effects of varicose veins. The pain can range from a mild ache to a throbbing sensation that can be debilitating. The discomfort may be worse after standing or sitting for long periods of time or at the end of the day.
- Varicose veins can cause swelling in the legs and ankles due to the increased pressure on the veins. This swelling can make it difficult to walk or stand for extended periods, and can also make it uncomfortable to wear shoes or socks.
- The condition can lead to changes in the skin around the affected area. Your skin may become discolored, and it may also become dry and itchy. In some cases, the skin may also develop rashes or sores that can be painful and difficult to treat.
- Varicose veins can also cause muscle cramps, particularly at night. These cramps can be painful and can disrupt sleep, making it difficult to function during the day.
- Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a condition where the legs feel uncomfortable or restless, particularly at night. Varicose veins are one of the most common causes of RLS, and it can be difficult to manage without treatment.
- When you suffer from varicose veins, you can experience a sensation of tiredness, particularly if you spend a lot of time standing or walking. The fatigue can be a result of the increased effort required to pump blood through the damaged veins.
- In some cases, varicose veins can lead to the formation of ulcers, particularly around the ankle. These ulcers can be painful and difficult to heal, and they may require medical treatment to manage.
A more significant problem is that varicose veins can increase the risk of blood clots, particularly if the veins are close to the skin’s surface. These blood clots can be dangerous and may require serious medical treatment if they’re left to develop. To deal with this issue properly and thoroughly, make sure to talk to a local expert in varicose veins as soon as possible.
Many of the problems listed above can be either mild or lead to complications and greater discomfort, in which case you might find that they will disrupt your day-to-day activities. In such cases, it’s always best to be cautious and visit your varicose vein doctor in Indiana. They will likely recommend a visit to a professional endovascular specialist or interventional radiologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.