Varicose veins are very common. For some patients they cause pain, swelling, skin itching by the ankles. In the worst case scenario, they can cause wounds by the ankle that are slow to heal (known as venous leg ulcers). For others it is something that just bothers them from an appearance perspective.
We are often asked: Do varicose veins go away on their own? Unfortunately the answer is that varicose veins don’t generally go away on their own. There are things you can do to treat them. For those who have a lot of symptoms like leg swelling, skin changes and even ulcers, this is good news. If you have stopped wearing shorts in the summer or avoid showing your legs at all, this is also good news.
So What Is Vein Disease?
Vein disease or venous insufficiency causes varicose and spider veins. It happens when tiny valves in your veins don’t work as they should and become strained, known as venous reflux. This can be due to weight, not getting enough activity or exercise, and even genetics.
These malfunctioning valves will struggle to pump blood back to your heart. When you have venous insufficiency, blood can pool in your legs and ankles.
Risk Factors For Developing Vein Disease
- Genetics (ie a close relative who has vein disease)
- Prior leg injuries or leg blood clots
- Obese
- Pregnant
- Having a job that require a long time sitting or standing
Any or some combination of the above factors increase your risk to develop vein disease.
Common Symptoms Of Vein Disease
People with vein disease first begin to notice visible veins on their legs and ankles.
Legs will swell, become dry and itchy, and easily become tired or achy. You may find it difficult to stand for long periods of time and experience numbness and tingling. Your pain will improve when you walk or elevate your legs.
If you have these symptoms, you should seek treatment from a vein specialist. Left untreated there are multiple serious conditions that can sometimes occur. As the disease progresses, venous leg ulcers can develop, and dangerous conditions like blood clots can occur.
See A Vein Specialist at Inovia Vein
All Inovia Vein doctors are all board-certified surgeons focused exclusively on world-class vein care. To set up a consultation to help you find the best path for your vein care journey, submit an Online Vein Screening Form or call any of our offices in Northwest Portland, Tigard, Happy Valley, Hillsboro or Bend, Oregon.