How dangerous are varicose veins?

Varicose veins can certainly be unattractive. But how dangerous are varicose veins?

Not all varicose veins require treatment, but if you have them you should see a vein specialist or a doctor. Some varicose veins can be managed with lifestyle changes that prevent them from advancing.

Most varicose veins are relatively gentle. They often itch or painful especially when standing or walking. However, the more significant problem with varicose veins is that of cosmetic discomfort! People simply do not like the way their legs look as these blue, ropey veins course down the front, back and sides of their legs! Women, whose legs were pristine and well-conditioned several years ago, realize that their legs are starting to look like their grandmother’s legs that they always saw as they were growing up.

This article aims to educate you about how dangerous are varicose veins and the consequences of not having them evaluated, monitored and treated.

How Dangerous Are Varicose Veins If Not Evaluated, Monitored or Treated?

While not all varicose veins are dangerous, they still must be evaluated and monitored by a vein specialist or doctors, so they can determine the possibility of treatment required every step of the way. This helps prevent secondary issues related to varicose veins, which include bleeding, blood clots, swelling, venous ulcers and more.

If you are living with swollen or discoloured leg veins, it is important to have them evaluated and treated. But this is not a matter of vanity, they can be dangerous.

Let’s look at each condition and why it is important to have them checked out.

Spider Veins

You can recognize these thin veins by their bluish or reddish colour and web-like shape. They are usually are not painful and rarely cause complications. Occasionally, they may bleed. Spider veins are easily corrected and there are several treatment options, including injection therapy and laser treatment.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are bulging, unappealing leg veins. If you have any symptoms, you should have your legs evaluated by a vein expert. These symptoms include: leg pain or cramping, swelling in the leg or ankle or a heavy feeling or fatigue in the legs.

If symptomatic varicose veins are left untreated, they can lead to serious complications, including rashes, infections, bleeding, sores and blood clots. If your leg is already swollen, your complications may be more severe.