When to worry about varicose veins?

Varicose veins are a common condition.

These unsightly, bulging veins – which often appear on the legs – are generally seen as a cosmetic issue and are not something to worry about for most people.

Many people seek treatments for varicose veins, based on their appearance, more so than other symptoms or related issues.

However, sometimes varicose veins can be related to more serious medical conditions which require attention.

Here are some signs to symptoms to look out for.

When to seek medical attention for varicose veins

Aside from their appearance, a lot of people who develop varicose veins don’t experience any other symptoms from them.

In such cases, there is normally not a lot to worry about.

However, varicose veins can occasionally cause some serious complications.

You should consult your doctor if you experience symptoms such as:

• Severe Pain or Discomfort
  If you experience severe or persistent pain or discomfort around your varicose veins, it could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, including inflammation or blood clots. It is important to seek medical care, which may be able to treat or rule out any such serious conditions.

• Swelling
  Along with severe pain, unusual swelling in your legs or ankles could be a sign of a blood clot or other circulatory problem. If the swelling is accompanied by severe pain, it is especially important to seek medical attention.

• Skin Changes
  Changes in the colour or feel of your skin around varicose veins are other signs to watch for, which could indicate complications. If your skin appears redder or brownish in colour, if your skin becomes rough or develops a rash, or if the area suddenly becomes itchy then you should consult your doctor.

• Bleeding
  Varicose veins can rupture in rare cases, causing bleeding which can be serious if left untreated. If you experience even a small amount of bleeding around your varicose veins you should seek medical care.

Even if you do not have any of these more serious symptoms, you should consult your doctor if you have any worries or concerns about your varicose veins, or if you would like treatment for them.

Treatments for varicose veins

A range of medical treatments are available for varicose veins which are a worry – or just an eyesore.

Treatment options include:

• Laser Therapy
  A non-invasive alternative to surgery, laser therapy sees a focused laser beam heat inside the vein and destroy the targeted varicose vein. You will have an incision on your leg from where the laser enters your skin.

• Coil Occlusion
  This treatment involves inserting a small coil into the vein to block blood flow, causing the vein to collapse and re-route blood to healthier veins.

• Sclerotherapy (Injection Treatment)
  This treatment sees a solution injected into a targeted vein, with the aim of causing it to collapse and be absorbed by the body. Sclerotherapy is suitable for leftover smaller veins after surgery or those which have received coil treatment or laser therapy.

• Surgery
  For larger or more complex varicose veins, surgical removal may be required.

At Laser Vein Co, we are experts in treatments for varicose veins in Melbourne and across wider Victoria.

Seek a referral to us from your doctor and book an appointment so that we can guide you through the best treatment options for your varicose veins and help put your mind at ease.