In some people, varicose veins cause no symptoms other than the unsightly appearance of the bulging, twisted vein beneath the skin. Insurance coverage is limited to patients with persistent symptoms that do not respond to conservative treatment.
Varicose veins are often progressive, which means that symptoms may worsen over time.
Bleeding: The thin-walled varicose veins protrude just under the skin. Minor trauma from bumping or scratching a large varicose vein may cause severe bleeding. Varicose veins bleed more than healthy veins because of high pressure within the damaged veins.
Phlebitis- or inflammation of a vein: Superficial thrombophlebitis is inflammation of a vein just below the surface of the skin. This usually happens when a small blood clot forms in the varicose vein. The vein will be painful and the overlying skin will be reddish in color and may feel warm to the touch.
Post-phlebetic leg – or stasis syndrome: This is a consequence of phlebitis and can result in long-term phlebitis involving deeper veins. The involved area of a post-phlebitic leg may become discolored, scaly, and swollen, with hardened areas beneath the skin and the development of painful ulcers.
Ulcers- These are open sores that develop from poor vein flow and may take weeks or months to heal. If you form ulcers, you need to consult with your physician as soon as possible. Most likely, they would refer you to a wound care physician. Patients with ulcers heal much quicker if they concurrently see us to treat their vein disease while also being treated for their wound management. We have longstanding relationships with local wound clinics that refer their ulcer patients to us for treatment.
