What are the serious consequences of varicose veins?

What are the serious consequences of varicose veins?

Varicose veins are a disease characterized by dilation of the veins and impaired valve function. If not treated and managed promptly, they can lead to deep vein thrombosis, skin ulcers, pigmentation, bleeding, chronic venous insufficiency, phlebitis, and in some patients, an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

1. Deep vein thrombosis: Varicose veins allow the veins to hold blood, increasing the risk of blood clots. If a blood clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, it can cause pulmonary embolism, a serious complication that can be life-threatening.

2. Skin ulcers: Varicose veins can cause blood to pool in the veins, increasing the risk of skin ulcers. Ulcers usually occur in the legs, especially around the ankles, and can cause pain, infection, and be difficult to heal.

3. Skin pigmentation: Varicose veins cause blood to stagnate in the veins, leading to skin pigmentation, making the skin dark, brown or purple.

4. Bleeding: The walls of varicose veins become thinner and more likely to rupture, leading to bleeding. Venous bleeding may be internal and difficult to detect, or it may be external, manifesting as skin bleeding or ruptured veins, and even leading to shock.

5. Chronic venous insufficiency: Varicose veins can impair the function of venous valves, causing blood to flow out, increasing the risk of chronic venous insufficiency, which may lead to leg swelling, pain, cramps, and fatigue.

6. Phlebitis: The patient's venous walls become fragile and prone to inflammation. Phlebitis is an inflammation of the venous walls that may cause local swelling, pain and fever.

7. Increased risk of cardiovascular disease: Studies have shown that varicose veins are associated with cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, coronary heart disease, and stroke.

If you suspect you have varicose veins, or if you have been diagnosed, you should consult a doctor promptly for treatment and management, including surgery or medication.