Varicose veins are more prominent—bulging out from just beneath the surface of the skin. They may also appear swollen, twisted, or engorged—almost like they might burst. Although they can develop anywhere in the body, they are most often found on the legs and ankles and can be blue or dark purple in color.
Why have I suddenly got varicose veins?
Causes of varicose veins
The blood is prevented from flowing backwards by a series of tiny valves that open and close to let blood through. If the valves weaken or are damaged, the blood can flow backwards and collect in the vein, eventually causing it to be swollen and enlarged (varicose).
Can varicose veins come on suddenly?
Increased swelling or pain in your legs. This may signal a more serious problem — especially if these symptoms come on suddenly, Dr. Joseph says. Brownish skin discoloration on your legs or veins that are red, hot or painful.
How do varicose veins start?
Varicose veins occur when veins aren’t functioning properly. Veins have one-way valves that prevent blood from flowing backward. When these valves fail, blood begins to collect in the veins rather than continuing toward your heart. The veins then enlarge.
Are varicose veins something to worry about?
While varicose veins may never become a health concern, they have the potential to develop into a vein ailment or disease over many years. These more complex health issues can take years to form, so if you have varicose veins, you should schedule consistent screenings.
Can drinking water help varicose veins?
Stay hydrated
Dehydration has a specific effect on the legs. It causes the tissues to swell and the muscles to cramp. Individuals with varicose veins feel these changes acutely in the form of aching and soreness. Drinking lots of water is the best way to stay hydrated.
What happens if you don’t treat varicose veins?
If symptomatic varicose veins are left untreated, they can lead to serious complications, including rashes, infections, bleeding, sores and blood clots. If your leg is already swollen, your complications may be more severe.
What are the warning signs of deep vein thrombosis?
- Swelling in the affected leg. Rarely, there’s swelling in both legs.
- Pain in your leg. The pain often starts in your calf and can feel like cramping or soreness.
- Red or discolored skin on the leg.
- A feeling of warmth in the affected leg.
When to get varicose veins checked out?
When to Call a Doctor About Varicose Veins
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Severe and continuous pain and swelling in the legs. Heaviness and/or dull, achy feeling in the legs at the end of the day, or after physical activity. Varicose veins are red and feel warm and tender to the touch.
Is it normal to have varicose veins in only one leg?
While varicose veins can happen in any part of the body, they tend to mostly occur on the legs and usually, it is only one leg.
Is walking good for varicose veins?
Exercise can increase your body’s ability to pump blood up the leg back toward the heart. It also helps keep your weight down, which further decreases your chances of getting varicose veins. Walking is a good choice, as are low-impact activities, such as swimming and biking.
Should you massage varicose veins?
“Massage may help reduce swelling or discomfort, but will not make varicose veins go away,” says Dr. Boyle. However, there are proven ways to treat them, especially when they’re causing symptoms, such as: Swollen legs, ankles and feet.
Can varicose veins go away on their own?
Varicose veins will not heal on their own, and delaying treatment may worsen the condition, leading to more serious ailments. To cure varicose veins once and for all, medical treatment is necessary.