Three Conditions Patients With Varicose Veins Should Be Aware Of

Health & Medical Blog

A common occurrence as you age, varicose veins are veins with a backflow of blood. This backflow causes an excess of blood, increasing the size of the veins. While most people who suffer from varicose veins aren't at risk for serious health issues, there are three things to look out for if you do have them.

Phlebitis

Literally meaning "inflammation of the vein," phlebitis can lead to blood clots forming in the superficial veins (or the ones closest to the skin). In most cases, the clot is not dangerous—it may cause pain and additional discomfort, but it usually dissolves before making its way to the deep veins.

While superficial phlebitis isn't dangerous, you're still urged to seek medical attention. It can be difficult to determine whether the pain and discomfort is caused by a superficial clot, or one that can cause more serious damage, such as a deep vein thrombosis.

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis, usually shortened to DVT, is a serious condition that warrants immediate medical attention. Failure to treat can lead to amputation of the affected extremity (usually the leg) or can even cause a pulmonary embolism or stroke.

Varicose veins can increase your risk for developing DVT, but there are ways you can help prevent it. It's important to stay active—long periods of inactivity can increase your odds of developing a clot which may then turn into DVT. It's also important to quit smoking, as smoking alone increases your chances significantly for developing DVT.

Ulcers

Venous leg ulcers are a common problem among those with varicose veins. While most ulcers will heal with proper treatment, your risk increases for another ulcer after each one you develop.

These ulcers are caused by the increased pressure applied to your skin. As the pressure in the veins increase, fluids may need to find a way out of the veins, leading to fluid buildup under the skin. This fluid can work to break down the skin, causing an ulcer. If you've suffered from a venous ulcer, it's important to work on prevention. Compression bandages help to prevent buildup, while elevation and exercise help to keep the blood flowing as it should.

While varicose veins themselves don't indicate serious health issues, there are some things to be more aware of if you have them. These include blood clots and ulcers. Blood clots can find their way to your lungs and brain, leading to serious and even fatal illnesses. Ulcers, while unpleasant, usually heal on their own and don't cause further health issues, though they should be properly cared for each and every time. Speak with experts like http://veinvarices.com for more information.

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26 February 2015