Varicose veins are a common issue that affects close to 20% of adults. Many people wonder, “Are varicose veins dangerous?” While varicose veins are not necessarily dangerous, they can lead to other complications if they are ignored. Thankfully, treating varicose veins doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. At VENUS Vein Clinic in Omaha, NE, we can help treat your Varicose Veins with a variety of non-invasive and minimally invasive treatments.
Are Varicose Veins Dangerous?
Varicose veins may simply be a cosmetic concern. Some people feel self-conscious about varicose veins and seek out treatment to regain confidence in their appearance. Others may find their varicose veins cause them physical discomforts such as leg pain and uncomfortable itching around the veins.
Varicose veins can also lead to far more serious issues, so to answer the question, Are varicose veins dangerous? By themselves, no, varicose veins are not dangerous, but they can lead to more serious problems that are. Although these sorts of complications are rare, they can occur, so it is a good idea to seek treatment when you first notice varicose veins in order to avoid further health concerns. Varicose veins can lead to the following complications:
- Ulcers, especially near the ankles
- Blood Clots
- Bleeding
- Pain
Who Is at Risk of Developing Varicose Veins?
Both men and women can develop varicose veins, but they are more common in women than men. The older you get, the higher the likelihood of developing Varicose Veins becomes. Women who are pregnant also have a higher risk of developing varicose veins. Taking birth control pills or undergoing hormone treatments will also increase your likelihood of developing varicose veins.
Besides age and gender factors, there are other factors that can increase your risk of varicose veins. Being overweight or spending a significant amount of time, either standing or sitting, can also put you at higher risk. varicose veins can also be genetic. If you have family members with varicose veins, the chances of you also developing them will likely increase.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Veins transport blood to the heart via one-way valves that keep the blood from flowing back down into the legs. A varicose vein develops when one of these valves dysfunctions and the blood is able to collect in the vein and cause the vein to stretch and twist, resulting in a varicose vein. It is not always clear what causes the dysfunction of the valve, and there is no guaranteed way of stopping it from happening.
Are There Ways To Prevent Varicose Veins?
Unfortunately, while you can limit the risk of developing varicose veins, there is no way to prevent them completely. Increasing blood circulation through exercise and making a conscious effort to switch positions, so you’re not sitting or standing for an extended time can help. Also, maintaining a healthy weight and eating a fiber-rich and low-salt diet can help. It’s also helpful to avoid wearing high heels, or tight socks or hosiery as this will help reduce pressure in the veins of your lower body, where varicose veins are most likely to occur.
What To Do if You Have Varicose Veins
If you notice you have developed varicose veins, the first thing to do is schedule a consultation with a doctor. Be sure to discuss any pain or aching in the legs that you may be experiencing and any other concerns you might have. At VENUS Vein Clinic, we give our patients a vascular ultrasound during a consultation to check if the veins are functioning the way they should and also to check if there is evidence of any blood clots.
After your consultation, your doctor will explain your options for the treatment of your varicose veins. Treatments are usually minimally invasive and do not normally require hospital stays or long recovery times. If Varicose Vein removal is for cosmetic purposes only, your health insurance likely will not cover it, but if it is determined that your varicose veins are a health concern, your insurance may cover it. It’s a good idea to check with your insurance company beforehand to avoid surprise medical bills.
Varicose Vein Self-Care
If you notice you have Varicose Veins or your waiting for treatment, a little self-care can help decrease pain and to keep them from getting worse. Exercising and losing weight can help ease the pain. It’s also a good idea to elevate your legs and switch positions regularly. Wearing loose clothes can also help keep you comfortable.
Where To Go To Treat Varicose Veins
While varicose veins by themselves do not pose a health threat; they are not something that should be ignored because they can lead to more serious health problems. If you are located in the Omaha area Varicose Veins Clinic in Omaha, Nebraska, is your go-to clinic for all your varicose vein and other vein care needs. Unlike other clinics in the area, we specialize in diagnosing and treating venous disease and are 100% focused on vein care. Contact us at VENUS Vein Clinic in Omaha, NE today for more information about varicose vein care and treatment options.