Veins are vital for blood circulation, as they carry blood to your heart from various parts of your body. Hereditary factors, being overweight, sitting or standing for long periods, aging, and a sedentary lifestyle can damage veins. Damaged veins can affect the blood flow to the heart, causing vein diseases such as chronic venous insufficiency, spider veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or varicose veins. If vein disease is left untreated, it can cause serious health complications.
However, some signs can indicate underlying vein problems, and a consultation with a vein specialist may be necessary. Such symptoms may include the following:
- Your Legs Feel Weak and Heavy after Standing for Long Periods
It is quite common to experience heaviness and weakness in your legs after standing for long periods, but these symptoms should not be ignored, as they can indicate vein issues. Weakness and heaviness caused by varicose veins can worsen after standing for long periods. Keeping your legs elevated is one way to resolve these symptoms, but you should visit a vein specialist if you begin to experience further pain.
- Chronic Leg Pain
Having leg pain does not mean that you have vein issues, but varicose veins cause aching, muscle cramps, throbbing, and chronic pain in the legs. People may mistake such symptoms as the consequences of their daily activities, aging, tiredness, and fitness issues.
- You Have Dry, Itchy Skin or a Rash Near Your Ankle
Skin issues such as itchiness, dryness, discoloration, or a rash can indicate untreated vein problems. The high blood pressure levels in the damaged veins impact blood circulation to the heart, causing your skin to suffer. If these vein problems are left untreated, they can cause a leg ulcer that involves intense pain and a complicated treatment process. Therefore, visit your vein specialist immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
- Pregnancy
Hormone fluctuations are the leading cause of varicose veins, and pregnancy is the time when hormones often fluctuate. The amount of blood in a woman’s body increases with pregnancy, as extra blood is required to support the growing fetus. As a result of the increase in blood volume, the woman’s vein enlarges, creating pressure within them. This pressure, along with the added pressure of the growing baby, can cause varicose veins. If you have had vein problems during your first pregnancy, such as throbbing, swelling, or aching, there are chances they may worsen with your second pregnancy. Visit a vein specialist in Johns Creek to keep your veins healthy during your pregnancy.
- You Have Leg Ulcers
Diabetes or untreated vein problems around the ankle and calf areas can lead to leg ulcers. Visit a vein doctor, as they can determine the root cause of your ulcers and recommend proper treatment.
- Swelling in One of Your Legs
Varicose veins can cause swelling due to excess pressure. However, if the swelling occurs in only one leg and after you have been awake or moving for a while, it can be a sign of venous insufficiency. Visit your vein doctor to find out whether damaged veins are the reason for your leg swelling.
- Spider Veins (Reticular Veins)
Spider veins develop when small veins collect below the skin’s surface and cause noticeable red, blue, or purple-hued discoloration. They usually appear on the legs or face and are generally less than 1.5 millimeters in size. Spider veins develop due to several factors, including genetics, body weight, occupations involving standing for long periods, and hormonal variations.
- Your Veins Have Turned Purple or Blue and Are Bulging
Irritation or swelling caused by varicose veins can make your veins blue or purple and bulge out. As a result, your veins will develop a blood clot, restricting blood from flowing through the vein. You may also develop deep vein thrombosis if blue or purple and bulged out veins are left untreated.
- You Have a Tender Lump in Your Leg
A blood clot in your veins can create a tender lump in your leg. Visit your vein specialist if you notice this type of lump so that it can be assessed for proper treatment.
If you experience any of these symptoms or suspect that you have vein disease, visit a vein specialist immediately. A qualified, experienced vein doctor can help you cope with your current symptoms and prevent future problems.
If you are looking for a qualified and certified vein specialist in Johns Creek, Cumming, Roswell, and Lawrenceville, contact or schedule an appointment with North Atlanta Vascular Clinic and Vein Center.
