When most people hear “varicose veins,” they think of blue and purple leg veins that appear chorded or ropelike.

While they are undoubtedly a cosmetic concern, they can also pose some considerable health issues without proper medical attention. But are varicose veins dangerous?

Keep reading to learn all about reducing your risk of varicose veins and your treatment options.

Are Varicose Veins Dangerous?

Healthy leg veins are able to carry blood back to the heart with the help of functioning valves that prevent the backflow of blood.

However, when these valves become damaged or weakened, it can disrupt the return of blood and result in a condition called venous insufficiency. This issue then allows blood to pool in the legs and lower extremities and produce enlarged and bulging varicose veins.

These veins are not only unsightly, but they can also cause discomfort and other serious symptoms. Therefore, patients should seek evaluation from a vein specialist for the proper diagnosis and treatment of their varicose veins.

Doing so, not only helps individuals look and feel better, but also prevent venous insufficiency from becoming a more dangerous problem.

What Are the Risk Factors for Varicose Veins?

One of the key ways that patients can help limit the development and progression of varicose veins is by recognizing and reducing their risk factors.

While genetics and a family history make individuals most vulnerable to varicose veins, it’s important to note other contributing factors including: Aging, pregnancy, hormonal changes, obesity, and sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time.

How Can Varicose Veins Be Treated?

In addition to lifestyle modifications to mitigate certain risks, there are a number of ways that varicose veins can be managed.

The first line of treatment is often compression stockings, which support veins and help push blood away from legs and lower extremities and back to the heart.

Sclerotherapy is another popular and effective way to reduce varicose veins. This in-office procedure involves injecting the damaged vein with a chemical solution that closes it and causes it to be absorbed by the body.

Endovenous laser ablation targets varicose veins with the help of an optic fiber that guides the laser directly to the affected vein. This treatment leads the vein to collapse and scar down.

Vein Stripping is a surgical procedure that excises varicose veins that are painful, enlarged, and have not responded to other less-invasive therapies.

If you’re still wondering if varicose veins are dangerous, call our office today to schedule a comprehensive consultation with one of our vein specialists.

They can expertly assess your concerns and develop a customized treatment plan for you. We are conveniently located in Westminster, Eldersburg, Baltimore, Hunt Valley and Bel Air.