Varicose veins are a common condition affecting millions of people, particularly as they age. While they are often considered a cosmetic issue, varicose veins can actually signal underlying circulatory problems that may put your overall health at risk. If left untreated, they can lead to more serious complications that could impact your long-term health. At Vein Clinic of Greater Kansas City, we’ll explain the hidden dangers of untreated varicose veins and why it’s important to address them sooner rather than later.
Explaining Varicose Veins
Varicose veins occur when the veins in your legs become swollen, twisted, or enlarged. They usually appear blue or dark purple and can be painful, especially when standing or sitting for extended periods. While many people with varicose veins experience little more than cosmetic concerns, the underlying cause is typically an issue with your circulatory system, which, if ignored, could result in serious health issues.
The Circulatory Connection: Why Varicose Veins Matter
At the heart of varicose veins is a condition called chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). CVI occurs when the veins in your legs have difficulty circulating blood back up to your heart. This is usually due to damaged or weakened vein valves, which are supposed to prevent blood from flowing backward. When these valves fail, blood begins to pool in your legs, causing the veins to swell and distort.
Over time, untreated varicose veins can lead to several complications that affect your circulatory health. These complications can range from mild discomfort to serious, life-threatening conditions.
The Hidden Dangers of Untreated Varicose Veins
1. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
One of the most dangerous complications associated with varicose veins is deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition where a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins in your legs. People with varicose veins are at a higher risk of developing DVT, especially if blood flow in their veins is already impaired. The real danger of DVT comes if the clot breaks off and travels through the bloodstream to other parts of the body, such as the lungs or heart.
Pulmonary embolism, which occurs when a clot from the legs travels to the lungs, is a major risk of DVT. When a clot blocks a pulmonary artery, it can cause severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, and even coughing up blood. Pulmonary embolism is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.
2. Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
As mentioned, varicose veins are often caused by CVI. In this condition, the veins in your legs are unable to efficiently return blood to the heart, leading to blood pooling in the lower extremities. This poor circulation can cause a variety of symptoms:
- Pain: A dull ache, heaviness, or throbbing pain in the legs.
- Swelling (Edema): Fluid buildup, especially after long periods of standing.
- Skin Changes: Over time, poor circulation can lead to changes in skin color, texture, and even ulcers near the ankle.
CVI can significantly reduce your quality of life, affecting your ability to walk or stand for long periods, and in some cases, leading to permanent damage to your veins and skin.
3. Phlebitis
Another potential risk of untreated varicose veins is phlebitis, which refers to inflammation of the veins. This is particularly common when varicose veins become enlarged and irritated. Superficial thrombophlebitis (SVT) is a form of phlebitis that occurs in veins near the surface of the skin. It can cause:
- Pain and tenderness in the affected area.
- Redness and warmth near the inflamed vein.
- Swelling and discomfort, which may be especially painful when touching the affected area.
While phlebitis is often less dangerous than DVT, it can still cause significant discomfort and may require medical intervention to prevent further complications.
Risk Factors for Developing Varicose Veins
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing varicose veins. These include:
- Age: As we get older, the veins in our legs naturally weaken and lose elasticity, which can contribute to the development of varicose veins.
- Obesity: Carrying excess weight puts added pressure on your veins, which can contribute to poor circulation and the development of varicose veins.
- Family History: If your parents or grandparents had varicose veins, you may be more likely to develop them as well.
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop varicose veins, especially during pregnancy or after menopause, due to hormonal changes.
- Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Occupations or lifestyles that involve standing or sitting for long periods can increase the risk of developing varicose veins.
What You Can Do About Varicose Veins
If you have varicose veins, it’s essential to seek treatment to prevent the potential complications listed above. Fortunately, there are effective varicose vein treatment options available to treat and manage this condition. These include:
- Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation: A minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to close off affected veins, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins.
- Sclerotherapy: A treatment in which a solution is injected into the varicose vein, causing it to collapse and eventually fade.
- Compression Stockings: These can help improve circulation and reduce swelling in the legs, providing relief for varicose vein symptoms.
At Vein Clinic of Greater Kansas City, we specialize in diagnosing and treating varicose veins. Our team can help determine the best treatment options tailored to your needs, improving your circulation and your quality of life.
Venous Insufficiency Is a Chronic Condition
Varicose veins are a symptom of venous insufficiency, a chronic (ongoing) condition that won’t fix itself. Contact us today at Vein Clinic of Greater Kansas City to schedule an evaluation and learn more about how we can help you manage and treat varicose veins.
Treat Varicose Veins Early
Varicose veins may seem like a minor issue at first, but they can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. If you notice any symptoms of varicose veins, such as bulging veins, pain, swelling, or discomfort, don’t ignore them. Taking action now can help prevent more severe circulatory issues down the road.
Come See Dr. B!
Dr. Barbieri is certified by The American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine and the American Board of Family Medicine and is a Registered Phlebology Sonographer. He has been in private practice since 1997 and has helped thousands of people in Overland Park and all around Kansas City stop suffering from painful varicose veins. He prides himself on creating a family-like atmosphere at Vein Clinic of Greater Kansas City where we provide state-of-the-art care in a comfortable, friendly, and fun environment. Schedule an appointment for an evaluation today!
