Why Varicose Veins are More than Just a Cosmetic Problem

While there’s no question that varicose veins can be unsightly, the cause of the condition is due to the failure of leg veins to work normally, something called venous insufficiency. This means the veins of your legs are no longer returning blood efficiently to the heart and lungs. 

Left untreated, varicose veins can lead to discomfort and pain, and problems with mobility, while potentially affecting your overall health. Phlebologist Dr. Clement Banda of MD Vein & Skin Specialists in Columbia, Maryland, is your varicose vein specialist. Visit our practice when you first notice signs of the condition. 

Understanding varicose veins

You see varicose veins as enlarged and twisted blood vessels through the skin of your legs. These can be the same color as your skin or darker, in shades of blue or purple. 

The pumping of your heart has little momentum once blood reaches the veins. In your legs, the movement of blood back to the heart and lungs is further challenged by gravity. 

Veins help maintain the forward movement of blood through a series of valves along their length that normally open in one direction only. Blood flows through, and the valve closes, preventing the backward flow. 

When these valves begin to fail, blood can pool under increasing pressure, pressing on the vein walls and creating the swollen, gnarled appearance characteristic of varicose veins. 

Beyond the cosmetic

As well as appearance, varicose veins can cause symptoms like: 

• Feelings of aching, fatigue, and heaviness in the legs
• Cramping
• Itchiness
• Skin color changes around affected veins
• Burning or throbbing sensations
• Fluid retention and swelling in the lower legs and ankles
• Symptoms that become worse after sitting or standing for long periods 

These effects can, without treatment, progress to the point that varicose vein symptoms interfere with your daily activities and your ability to function. 

Health complications

Varicose veins can be a precursor to a range of other health issues, including: 

• Chronic venous insufficiency
• Venous eczema
• Skin inflammation or irritation
• Skin discoloration
• Phlebitis (inflammation of veins)
• Venous ulcers
• Increased risk of bacterial and fungal infections from chronic swelling
• Varicose veins are a marker for the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), blood clots that form deep in your legs, which can cause deadly pulmonary embolisms, should they break loose

The sooner we treat your varicose veins, the better your chance of sidestepping the hazards associated with venous insufficiency. 

Varicose veins can be largely a benign cosmetic problem, but it’s not a diagnosis you can make yourself. Contact MD Vein & Skin Specialists for a complete assessment and treatment plan. Book online or call our office directly today.