The average case of varicose veins is not cause to worry, but treatment is a good idea if you happen to spot them. In some cases, you may be at risk for skin problems, or it could even be a sign that you have a more serious health problem.
Diagnosing varicose veins is fairly easy, since most cases will be noticed through the enlarged veins found in the arms, feet, and legs. Enlarged veins are also more colorful, making them even easier to spot. Although you would think that such a condition would be relatively harmless, varicose veins will actually lead to more serious health problems if not diagnosed. Thus, knowing the symptoms is important to your safety.
When you exercise, you probably already know that veins will enlarge and become more colorful. It is important to distinguish exercise and other strenuous activity from varicose veins. Varicose veins will not go away after a long bout of relaxation. Even though you see some body builders with large veins, do note that there is a difference between healthy veins and the varicose veins that can be potentially dangerous.
If you have been pregnant or expect to be pregnant in the future, you will need to be careful and check yourself for varicose veins regularly. A simple checkup once a month should suffice. Pregnant women are at more risk since the extra pressures on the leg tend to make veins larger- and leads to a permanent case of varicose veins. Such problems usually present later on in a pregnancy.
A rapidly swollen leg is a clear indication of varicose veins. Such a case is extremely serious, since this likely indicates that there is a blood clot that needs to be thinned or broken to ensure that the clot doesn’t cut off circulation completely. Acting fast in this incident is crucial in trying to save the leg, which would otherwise quickly lose ability to work or function. This typically only occurs in the elderly or those with certain health disorders.
Other times you may even develop ulcers- or what is called a skin lesion. An ulcer can be quite painful, which goes to show that varicose veins can indeed lead to a painful setting if not treated. Ulcers are quite common around the ankle, but can occur almost anywhere on the body. Ulcers have been known to lead to other health complications, such as infections, so you should treat them with haste.
Final Thoughts
Varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic problem- they can indicate other problems or be the direct cause of future health concerns. You should look online for more diagnostic information, and seek a physician to see what your options are in treatment.
Learn more about varicose veins and varicose veins.