Many people suffering from varicose veins assume the problem cannot get worse: yes they are unsightly, maybe there’s some periodic minor discomfort, but nothing that is not manageable. This becomes reason enough not to see a doctor or seek treatment. Unfortunately, untreated varicose veins can lead to more serious problems.
The underlying cause of varicose veins is venous insufficiency, a failure of valves within the vein that allows blood to pool. This may be a natural consequence of aging, lack of exercise, genetic predisposition or other causes. Left untreated, more serious complications include:
- Gradual enlargement or the vein
- Swelling with or without pain
- Skin discolouration, thickening and ulceration.
- Superficial (painful) blood clot
- Deep vein (dangerous) blood clot
Onset of these complications may be gradual, but can also be sudden. Deep vein blood clots are extremely dangerous, life threatening even, and can strike without warning. All of these problems themselves have the potential to worsen over time, resulting in chronic pain and disability.
If you notice a problem, even if it’s simply the appearance of unsightly veins, seek treatment to avoid developing more serious complications. You may be genetically predisposed to venous insufficiency and therefore more at risk of varicose veins. In any case, what appears to be only a cosmetic problem can be a precursor to much more serious problems that require professional intervention.
Get Rid of your Varicose Veins
Vein Care is the leader for professional varicose vein treatment in Melbourne and surrounding communities. Contact us for a quick exam and to learn more about the dangers you face from varicose veins, as well as the solutions we have available. Treatment is quick, typically performed on an outpatient basis and with immediate return to daily activities. There is no need to suffer lasting pain and disability, varicose vein treatment is effective and affordable.