Millions of people around the world suffer from varicose veins, which is a common condition. Although varicose veins can develop anywhere on the body, the legs and feet are where they are most frequently found. Upper East Side varicose veins can cause discomfort, pain, and swelling.
Varicose veins diagnosis
Varicose veins are usually diagnosed through a physical exam and a discussion of your medical history and symptoms. During the physical exam, your doctor will examine your legs while standing or sitting to check for signs of bulging veins, swelling, skin changes, or other varicose veins. They may also ask you to describe any symptoms you are experiencing, such as pain, discomfort, or a feeling of heaviness or fatigue in the legs.
Once a diagnosis of varicose veins has been made, your doctor will work with you to develop an appropriate treatment plan based on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause of your condition.
There are several indicative signs that you may have varicose veins. The most common symptoms include:
Bulging veins
Bulging veins are veins that have become enlarged, twisted, and bulge outwards from the skin’s surface. They are most commonly found in the legs and feet but can also occur in other body parts.
Blood vessels called veins are responsible for returning anemic blood to the heart. One-way valves that stop the blood from flowing backward help this blood flow in the legs. When these valves become weakened or damaged, blood can flow back and pool in the veins, causing them to enlarge and bulge.
Pain and discomfort
Pain and discomfort are common signs of varicose veins. This can cause aching, throbbing, or burning pain in the affected area. The pain may worsen after prolonged standing or sitting periods and improve with elevation or rest.
Varicose veins can also cause a feeling of heaviness or fatigue in the legs. This can make it difficult to stand or walk for long periods and may affect your quality of life.
The pain associated with varicose veins is caused by the increased pressure on the veins due to blood pooling. The veins become stretched and dilated, and the surrounding tissues may inflame.
Swelling
Swelling is a sign of an underlying problem with the veins in the affected area. In the case of varicose veins, the swelling is caused by the increased pressure on the veins due to blood pooling. This pressure can cause fluid to leak out into the surrounding tissues, resulting in swelling.
Skin changes
Skin changes are another sign of varicose veins. This can cause blood to pool in the veins, leading to increased pressure on the surrounding tissues. Over time, this pressure can cause changes to the skin in the affected area.
Some common skin changes associated with varicose veins include:
- Discoloration: The skin in the affected area may become darkened or discolored, often taking on a reddish or brownish hue.
- Thickening: The skin may become thickened and feel leathery or hard to the touch.
- Itching: The affected area may feel itchy or irritated due to skin changes.
- Dryness: The skin may become dry and flaky, particularly in the areas surrounding the varicose veins.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult your doctor at Upper East Side Cardiology.
