In the hustle and bustle of modern life, maintaining our health often takes center stage. We diligently hit the gym, opt for healthier food choices, and strive for a balanced lifestyle. Despite our best efforts, certain health issues can still rear their heads, and one such concern is varicose veins.
These unsightly, enlarged, and twisted veins can affect people, especially those with a sedentary lifestyle or a family history of the condition. Typically found just under the surface of the skin, varicose veins are most common on the legs, either on the inside of the leg or behind the knee.
While they might seem harmless at first—primarily a cosmetic issue—varicose veins can cause discomfort and pain, and in some cases, lead to more serious complications like sores, skin ulcers, or blood clots. Although many people may only notice the unsightly appearance of varicose veins, others might experience more severe symptoms.
Dr Amita Jain, Delhi and Gurgaon’s top laparoscopic and varicose veins surgeon shares the signs that indicate it is time to consult a doctor.
What are the signs you need to see a doctor if you have varicose veins?
Unbearable pain
Achy legs after walking or physical activity can be an early warning sign of varicose veins, a condition where blood collects in the veins, typically in the legs, due to poor circulation back to the heart.
While varicose veins often don’t cause noticeable discomfort, severe cases can lead to pain, soreness, or warmth in the affected area. The sensation may feel like your legs are cramping or fatigued, even without significant exertion.
If this soreness disrupts your daily activities or becomes painful to the touch, it’s essential to consult a doctor, as this could indicate a more serious issue requiring treatment.
Swollen feet and ankles
Swollen feet and ankles at the end of the day could be an early warning sign of varicose veins, especially if it happens regularly. While occasional swelling might not be cause for concern, persistent or severe swelling may indicate that your veins are struggling to circulate blood efficiently.
This can lead to a feeling of tightness in the calves or ankles, signaling that varicose veins could be affecting your blood flow. If you notice this symptom frequently, it’s important to consult a doctor, as it could be a telltale sign of developing varicose veins that require medical attention.
Skin color changes
The most recognizable sign of varicose veins is the appearance of twisted, rope-like bulges just beneath the skin’s surface, often blue or purple in color. These swollen veins, primarily found on the legs, can cause discomfort and sometimes pain.
As varicose veins progress, the skin around them may become tight, harden, and change color from red to brown, indicating poor circulation and insufficient nutrient delivery to the tissue. This can lead to permanent changes and more serious complications if left untreated. Many people often confuse varicose veins with spider veins probably owing to some similarities in appearance.
Unlike spider veins, which are smaller, harmless, and painless, varicose veins require medical attention to prevent further health issues. If you notice these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor to address the condition before it worsens.
Itchy skin
If you’re experiencing persistent itchiness on your skin, especially around your ankles, it’s more than just dry skin—it could be a sign of varicose veins. When the veins in your lower legs aren’t functioning properly, blood can accumulate and toxins that are usually flushed out through the bloodstream can build up, leading to skin irritation.
This can manifest as a dry, itchy rash, which might be a precursor to varicose ulcers or varicose eczema. In severe cases, the skin may become red, scaly, and inflamed, with sores that ooze and scab over.
This condition, known as venous stasis dermatitis, results from blood leaking into the skin due to damaged vessels, reducing oxygen supply to the affected area. The moment you notice these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately to prevent further complications and receive appropriate treatment for your varicose veins.
Visible red spots
You may also notice red spots on your lower legs that resemble acne, either directly on your varicose veins or in small clusters around them. These spots can indicate that the blood vessels in your legs have weakened and burst, which is a telltale sign that you should consult a doctor.
This symptom suggests that your varicose veins may be worsening, and seeking medical advice can help prevent further complications and ensure appropriate treatment.
Bleeding
In rare cases, varicose veins can start to bleed, which is a serious symptom and a clear signal to consult a doctor immediately. This occurs when the veins in your legs become so damaged that they release blood into the surrounding tissues, often due to increased pressure within the vein or an injury.
Varicose veins are close to the skin’s surface and can bleed more than normal when ruptured, especially if the skin over the area becomes thinner. If you experience spontaneous bleeding from a varicose vein, apply pressure to the area and seek medical attention right away.
This bleeding, whether mild or significant, can indicate that the vein is at risk of more severe complications, and prompt medical intervention is essential to prevent further issues.
Once you notice signs like unbearable pain, swelling, skin color changes, itchy skin, red spots, or bleeding, it’s crucial to consult a doctor. These symptoms could indicate worsening varicose veins or complications requiring prompt medical attention to prevent further health issues.
Dr Amita Jain is a surgeon with highest degree of professional competence, precision and surgical craftsmanship. Performed all complicated general surgery procedures with in depth knowledge of invasive and few minimal invasive and onco surgical techniques. Underwent special training in trauma, executed various trauma-related complex life-saving neurosurgical procedures, reconstructed injured mangled limbs and performed vascular and reconstructive procedures with critical care.
Dr Amita Jain holds 28 plus years of rich experience in Trauma and General Laparoscopic Surgeries (including Gallbladder stone removal, appendix removal, hernia repair surgery, piles and fissure surgeries). She was the Professor Surgery of at the Army College of Medical Sciences and Base Hospital Delhi Cantt. In 1994 she was commissioned as Surgeon under the United Nations Mission in Congo. From 2020 to 2022, she worked with Bansals Hospital. Currently, Dr Amita Jain is the Senior Consultant, (Speciality: General and Laparoscopic Surgeon) at Artemis Lite Hospital, New Delhi