When Should I See a Doctor About My Painful Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are sometimes seen as an inevitable sign of aging. After all, when we age, our bodies change. For some, it’s no surprise when we see oddly shaped, darkened veins twisting against the skin. For some, the surprise is the first time they realize that their varicose veins weren’t just a visible sign of aging, but a painful reminder of what was. 

Those reminders don’t have to be memories — you can get back some of what you think you’ve lost at Vascular Associates of San Diego in La Mesa, California. Our expert team of vascular care specialists are well-versed in the safest and most effective treatment for varicose veins, and other vein conditions. 

How did I get varicose veins?

The purpose of your veins is to carry blood back to your heart. To do this, valves within the veins force blood back up toward the head, where it’s drawn into the heart to be filled with oxygen. Without these valves, gravity would simply stop your blood from moving anywhere. Stress on these blood valves due to weight, age, or other factors can cause these valves to fail. 

When these valves fail, the blood that should be on its way to the heart stays in the vein, pooling and enlarging the vein. As you go on about your day, the natural motion of your body helps the vein to wiggle to the surface of the muscle, eventually revealing an unwelcome surprise on your skin, usually appearing on the calves and ankles, but also on the arms and face. 

Varicose veins can affect anyone, and an estimated 35% of adults in the US are living with varicose veins. Women over 50 are particularly vulnerable to varicose veins. People carrying significant excess weight are more likely to develop varicose veins, and they affect people with abnormal hormones, including pregnant women. Other risk factors factors include: 

• Being a smoker, 
• Having a family history of varicose veins
• Smoking
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Previous leg injury
• Sitting or standing for long periods of time
• Frequent use of high-heel shoes

Varicose veins can bring unexpected complications — namely complications that impact your daily life, make you self-conscious, and leave you wanting more. 

Why do they hurt?

There is a small variety of discomfort that can be attributed to varicose veins. Some of the most commonly reported symptoms of varicose veins is heaviness and tiredness in the legs or swollen legs. You may experience itching or see a rash develop around the bulging, discolored veins. 

Severe complications of varicose veins include phlebitis, painful and irritating inflammation in the area around varicose veins. This can affect the legs, particularly the back of the knees. Varicose veins have also been known to rupture, causing even more discomfort. Ulcers of the leg have been connected to varicose veins, as have skin tears. 

Whether your varicose vein symptoms are manageable or crippling, our experienced team can offer you effective treatments and guidelines for lifestyle changes that can put you on the road to a healthier life. 

When should I see a doctor about my painful varicose veins?

It’s never too soon to approach your medical provider about treating your varicose veins. Most people experience varicose veins without complications or any real impact to their daily lives. For those who do experience symptoms they may come and go and vary in terms of severity, help is available. Call us for a consultation at 619-375-1781, or book an appointment with us online today.