Varicose veins are visible symptoms of poorly functioning valves that allow blood to circulate in the “wrong” direction. The immediate result is increased pressure on blood vessels walls, leading to damage and weakening of the blood vessels, resulting in the twisty and enlarged veins that characterize the condition.
Common Causes
Varicose veins can be caused by a variety of different medical conditions that can affect blood circulation, including genetic predisposition in some families, obesity, pregnancy, extended periods of sitting or standing, and even smoking.
Minor Complications
Poor blood circulation can increase the pressure on the skin, often resulting in local bleeding, and in some cases, the formation of sores. These are known as venous or varicose ulcers and typically form on the sides of the lower leg. Sores in this area are often slow to heal and can also become infected if left untreated.
Potentially Serious Complications
Although severe complications from varicose veins are rare, they can lead to some potentially far more unpleasant problems.
The first complication is the development of blood clots in veins close to the skin surface. The chance of developing blood clots significantly increases when blood circulation is disrupted, and blood starts to pool.
If blood clots are allowed to develop in deep veins, typically in the thighs or lower legs, the result can be deep vein thrombosis. This can result in leg pain or swelling, but may not be associated with any symptoms. It’s a far more serious condition, however.
Ultimately, if left untreated, blood clots can become dislodged and travel through the body. If they migrate to the lungs, they can result in blocked arteries, known as pulmonary embolism. This is a severe condition that can result in chest pain and shortness of breath.
Treatment
The above should have convinced you to take the development of varicose veins seriously. The good news is that treatments are available to help address varicose veins’ development, even in their early stages. You should start by consulting a qualified doctor to establish if your varicose veins are merely cosmetic, or if they’re the result of a more serious condition.
When no serious underlying medical conditions exist, there are non-invasive or minimally-invasive treatment options, including Sclerotherapy and Laser Vein Therapy. Early treatment will also greatly reduce your chances of developing more serious complications afterward.
Your Laser Skin Care
Your Laser Skin Care is medically qualified and experienced – we can provide you with a full range of services, including a complete diagnosis of your varicose veins’ cause and advice on the best ways to treat the condition. We have extensive experience providing both Laser Vein Therapy and Sclerotherapy treatments and a host of other non-invasive cosmetic procedures. Call us at (323) 525-1516 to schedule a free consultation or visit us online for more information.
