Common Symptoms and Stages of Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are veins that have a twisted or ropy look, along with a purple or bluish coloring. These veins occur when blood collects inside them rather than flowing through normally. When you have this type of vein problem, the affected veins might bulge and look enlarged. Varicose veins usually occur in the legs, although you can have them in other parts of your body. Keep in mind that you can have this vein problem as part of an underlying vein disease, such as venous stasis dermatitis or venous eczema.
Your Legs and Skin Discoloration
When you have problems with blood circulation, you might develop a vein disease that causes varicose veins and changes to your skin’s appearance, such as skin discoloration. These symptoms and stages of varicose veins might appear as reddish or brownish patches on your lower legs, feet, or ankles. You might also have patches of skin that have a scaly or shiny appearance. Skin discoloration caused by a vein disease can also cause skin irritation that resembles a rash. Other symptoms you might have include:
- Swollen ankles
- Itching or pain in the affected area
- Hair loss on your shins or ankles
- Sores
If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a vein specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Can Varicose Veins Be Cured?
Varicose veins can be treated, which doctors might recommend as part of treatment for an underlying vein disease or if you’re experiencing severe discomfort or other symptoms. In some cases, self-care might be the first course of treatment, such as wearing compression stockings, losing excess weight, exercising, and avoiding sitting or standing for long periods of time. If this does not provide relief from your symptoms, other forms of treatment are available.
Treatment Options for Varicose Veins
Several treatment options for varicose veins can offer relief from pain and other symptoms. Some of these include the following:
- Sclerotherapy: This involves injecting a solution into the affected veins to cause scarring, which helps close them off.
- Laser treatment: This involves closing off smaller varicose veins without using an invasive technique.
- Ambulatory phlebectomy: This involves removing varicose veins through small skin punctures.
- Endoscopic vein surgery: This involves using minimally invasive surgery to close varicose veins that are causing severe problems.
Post-Procedure Care for Varicose Veins
When you undergo varicose vein treatment, it’s important to closely follow your doctor’s instructions for post-care. This helps ensure that the affected area heals properly with lower risks of complications, such as infections. Your doctor might recommend moving around rather than sitting, which helps blood keep flowing and reduces the risk of blood clots. You might also be able to ease any discomfort you experience after your treatment with over-the-counter pain relievers. Keep in mind that this soreness is temporary and should be mild.
Finding Varicose Vein Treatment in Lumberton, NJ
If you’re interested in finding effective treatment for varicose veins, please contact Vein & Vascular Institute to schedule a consult. When you meet our vein physicians in Lumberton, New Jersey, we’ll evaluate your symptoms and provide you with safe treatment options.