When to Tell If Varicose Veins Are Becoming Dangerous
Needless to say, varicose veins are typically considered unsightly blemishes under the skin. But it is more than just the appearance that matters when it comes to the treatment of dilated blood vessels.
As a matter of fact, if you leave varicose veins untreated, you can suffer from a variety of serious medical conditions. In most cases, patients with varicose veins report some symptoms of fatigue, itchiness, pain, and discomfort in the leg area, including swelling of the skin. If the patient avoids vein treatment in San Diego, these symptoms can only get worse.
Importance of Treating Varicose Veins
One case of varicose veins is different from another. So while some patients see symptoms to worsen, others are at risk of coming down with some range of more serious or potentially life-threatening conditions.
Hyperpigmentation
When varicose veins are left untreated, it will result in the excess in blood leaking into the tissues of the leg. Therefore, the patient will experience some painful swelling and inflammation as parts of their skin become discolored and dark. Such a condition is called hyperpigmentation.
Lipodermatosclerosis
The inflammation of the leg can affect the tissues when left in that condition for a period of time. The tissues will become firm and heavy and the patient might feel tenderness in the affected part, making it hard to move or relax. It is termed as lipodermatosclerosis as the definition of the hardening and stiffening of the tissues of the legs.
Venous Leg Ulcer
A condition called chronic venous insufficiency or CVI will result when vein treatment in San Diego is not considered promptly. This is where the area of the skin that breaks down to reveal the flesh underneath. This condition is called venous leg ulcer that will get worse over time, which lead to an increase of the irritation and discomfort of the legs.
Spontaneous Bleeding
The walls of the skin will break down in time when varicose veins are not treated. This will bring the veins closer to the surface of the skin. So the slightest scrape or scratch can lead to excess blood loss. Even if the bleeding can be painless, patients might experience blood loss when left untreated.
Superficial Thrombophlebitis
This condition involves the inflammation of the veins just beneath the skin surface. This is due to the weakening of the veins and a decrease in blood flow. So the patient will experience some redness of the skin, ongoing pain or swelling of the legs, and increasing tenderness of the vein.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Among the conditions related to varicose veins, this one is the most serious. Deep vein thrombosis is a common result of the pulling sensation in the legs, which stems from a blood clot. Patients will feel as if their legs are pinched with increasing swelling and redness in the legs. This becomes life-threatening if the blood clot will travel further up the body.
Varicose Veins Specialist
Patients with varicose veins are advised to seek a licensed specialist to conduct an initial evaluation. In this case, board-certified vascular surgeons are best suited to determine the severity of the case. They will also determine whether or not to apply additional treatment methods.
We specialize in diagnosis and treatment for any and all vascular health issues for patients in San Diego County, Orange County, and Riverside County. For more information or to set an appointment, please contact us.