The veins in the body play a vital role in your general health. These veins help ensure that blood circulates back up to the heart. However, in some cases, once the veins become damaged or worn, the blood no longer circulates as it should, resulting in vein issues.
Often, individuals with vein issues do not reach out to an Englewood vein specialist because they are uncertain about their severity. Nonetheless, the signs highlighted below should be telltale indications that medical attention is necessary.
1. Your Legs Feel Weak
While it might seem normal for the legs to feel weak after long-standing periods or a long day, it is not. This weakness could be a sign of vein problems. Varicose veins can make the legs feel heavy and weak, which worsens after standing for long.
Raising your legs is a great way to alleviate that weak, heavy sensation. However, if you are even experiencing such discomfort in the first place, then something is wrong. You should see a vein doctor for a professional diagnosis.
2. You Have Itchy, Dry Skin or Notice a Rash Near the Ankle
Skin problems like itchiness, dryness, or a rash could indicate untreated vein issues. The signs you observe on the skin stem from high blood pressure levels in the affected veins. Blood is not flowing back up to the heart with these damaged veins, which causes skin changes.
If you do not receive prompt treatment for the vein issue, that unsightly rash or flaky skin may worsen, such as a leg ulcer. A leg ulcer may cause considerable discomfort and require more aggressive treatment. Therefore, do not hesitate to seek expert care.
3. Your Leg Pain is Affecting Your Everyday Life
Simply because you have leg discomfort does not imply you have vein problems. Nonetheless, varicose veins cause leg discomfort, especially throbbing and aching. Besides, the more you exert pressure on your legs, the more discomfort intensifies.
You should arrange a consultation with a vein specialist to establish if your leg pain results from damaged veins. Here, your doctor will establish the cause of your discomfort and offer the necessary treatment.
4. Your Veins Have Turned Purple or Blue, and Are Bulging
If you notice your veins changing color or bulging, contact a vein doctor. Your veins turning purple or blue, and protruding could be because of the irritation and swelling of your varicose veins.
Once varicose veins reach this point, they can develop a blood clot that keeps blood from flowing through the vein entirely. An untreated blood clot can eventually result in deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
5. You Have Leg Swelling
There are numerous reasons why you may experience leg swelling. Nevertheless, varicose veins nearly always cause some form of swelling. If this swelling occurs on only one leg or is prominent in the morning, you probably have venous insufficiency.
However, to determine for sure if you have venous insufficiency, you should reach out to a vein doctor. Only your provider can establish if damaged veins are the reason for your swelling and suggest appropriate care.
Most vein issues do not cause life-threatening complications, prompting many to believe they are mild concerns. However, if left untreated, even varicose and spider veins can lead to more serious complications, such as deep vein thrombosis and leg ulcers.
Therefore, instead of playing the guessing game, arrange a consultation with a vein doctor if you notice any of the warning signs highlighted above. Your doctor can offer a professional diagnosis and create a tailored care plan.
