Varicose Vein Warning Signs

Who Is at Risk for Varicose Veins?

Developing varicose veins at any age is possible, but several conditions can exacerbate it.

To begin with, it is important to understand that varicose veins are primarily due to malfunctioning vein walls and valves that impair the blood's circulation. When the blood cannot travel to the heart, it will accumulate in the veins, stretching and disfiguring them.

Contributing causes include the following

• Family history of varicose veins
• Physical inactivity
• High body mass index (BMI)
• Tight footwear
• Pregnancy

Any of these conditions can increase your chances of acquiring varicose veins. If one or more of above conditions describe you or your lifestyle, you must identify preliminary signs that might predict susceptibility to vein concerns. 

The first indications of varicose veins

You should examine your veins regularly. If you have highly recognizable veins—visible veins just beneath the surface of your skin—you might be at a greater risk of experiencing varicose veins. 

Varicose veins are also at risk if you have swollen feet at night. If this issue continues for more than a couple of days, you should consult your doctor.

The lower legs may also show pale red marks before varicose veins bulge and appear. Red marks could indicate the presence of a ruptured blood vessel, which could signal vein disease. Additional signs can include the following

• Skin that itches or flakes.
  Flaking or itching skin might suggest the emergence of varicose veins, but peripheral artery disease or venous insufficiency could also be the cause.
• Shiny skin on the legs.
  Shiny, taut skin on the legs can indicate poor circulation. 
• Skin discoloration on the legs.
  Skin discoloration is often predictive of varicose veins.

Each of these signs could indicate varicose veins in your legs, so paying close attention to your skin and improving your circulation to prevent varicose veins from developing is important.

However, it is also possible for varicose veins to appear suddenly without any symptomatic onset. Having periodic evaluations by a vascular specialist will alert you to any anomalies that might progress into varicose veins or venous insufficiency.

The sooner you address potential varicose veins, the easier your vein disorder will be to manage. Who wouldn't want that?

5 Facts About Spider Veins

How much do you know about spider veins? See if you know any of the following surprising facts. 

1. Varicose veins aren't typically painful. While some cases of varicose veins cause discomfort, most people don't experience pain from varicose veins. Most people who choose to have them treated do so for aesthetic purposes.
2. Varicose veins can make you light-headed. Poor circulation can disrupt the flow of blood to the organ systems. Severe varicose veins can indicate serious venous disease.
3. Approximately 30% of women and 20% of men have noticeable varicose veins.
4. Varicose veins largely don't merit invasive surgical intervention. However, they can be a source of discomfort and embarrassment for some people. Lifestyle choices such as sustaining a healthy weight and quitting smoking can help reduce the risk of developing varicose veins. Minimally invasive procedures like radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy are also available for more severe cases.
5. Varicose veins might be an indication of a larger problem. Large, bulbous varicose veins could be a sign of venous insufficiency, which can cause significant complications. If you experience skin discoloration, leg swelling, discomfort, or skin changes, you could be at risk for developing slow-healing wounds.

Varicose Vein Treatment in Georgia

Knowing the health of your veins is essential. The earliest possible diagnosis and advanced treatment are important for optimal outcomes. 

Our experienced team of specialists at Georgia Endovascular can help you identify any vein issues and develop a personalized treatment plan. Contact our representatives in Atlanta today at 678-915-2000 to learn more.