Varicose Veins:
Understanding the Hidden Dangers

The serious aspects of unsightly varicose veins

Varicose veins are not only unsightly, they can be dangerous. They usually develop on the legs and ankles in later years, as the gravity takes its toll on the body. They are sometime referred to as spider veins, but those are only milder versions of varicose veins. Here’s how to deal with them using the marvel of modern medicine.

What Are They, Exactly?

Varicose veins are formed when the vein is too close to the surface of the skin. The vein then enlarges and creates a very noticeable appearance. They sometimes like to twist, creating a strange rope-like appearance. Each vein in your leg has valves that work to keep the blood flowing in the proper direction and pulse.

But, when these valves don’t work properly, the blood is allowed to pool or flow backwards. This process can stretch the tissue, make it look enlarged, and create varicose veins.

They’re more common in women than men, but they happen in both sexes, and they’re usually formed in the legs, thanks to the pressure of gravity making it harder to pump blood through the legs. For many people, the problem is merely aesthetic. But, for others, it can be more serious.

Unlike old age veins that can be seen on people's hands, especially those who did physical work, varicose veins are more unsightly, develop on legs, and can have a "twisted rope" appearance.

When They Become Serious

If you develop something called phlebitis, it can turn harmless varicose veins into a serious medical condition. Phlebitis is an inflammation of the veins. This process allows pooled blood inside the vein to clot in response to the inflammation, forming a thrombus.

This is a painful condition which presents as a hard and tender lump on the leg.

This then becomes a serious risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) where the clot can extend deep into the vein system. In some extreme cases, the clot dislodges and travels to other parts of the body. For example, if it moves to the lungs, it becomes pulmonary embolus, a serious medical condition which is life-threatening and requires immediate and urgent diagnosis and treatment.

Going untreated, even for regular varicose veins, puts you at risk for damage to the skin on the lower part of the leg. The damage can then deteriorate and become an ulcer or sore on the leg that refuses to heal, due to the fact that blood flow is restricted.

It often reduces mobility and decreases quality of life. However, these ulcers are completely preventable. People over the age of 40 are at a higher risk for varicose veins, as are people with a family history of them.

Medical Procedures That Can Help

If you can’t get any relief from varicose veins, some medical procedures might help. Losing weight is one of many first steps that can alleviate pain and some of the risk factors. If you’re having trouble with that, changing diet and lifestyle can help, as can plastic surgery. For more information about plastic surgery and what it can do, click here.

Once varicose veins develop, you can have a procedure called sclerotherapy, which is an injection of a liquid chemical into the vein. This causes it to disappear over time. Most doctors will recommend compression stockings or support hose before surgery, however.

Taking care of your skin, moisturizing, and changing lifestyle is the best preventative medicine.

About the author

Dr. Kevin Ruhge is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons who runs a busy cosmetic surgery practice in sunny Pasadena, California. He serves patients throughout southern California and throughout the United States. His illuminating and informative posts appear mainly on health, medical and wellness websites.

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