Varicose and spider veins may seem like minor cosmetic concerns, but they can often be a warning sign of more serious underlying conditions like chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). If you’re experiencing leg pain or other unusual symptoms, it might be time to consult an emergency vein specialist near Timonium, Maryland.

In more urgent cases, however, a trip to the ER may be necessary. Knowing the difference could save you from serious health risks.

Why Early Detection Is Key, Even Without Symptoms

Even if your spider or varicose veins aren’t causing any immediate discomfort, it’s still a good idea to consult with a vein specialist. Visible veins can be an early sign of issues that can worsen over time.

By catching these problems early, you can take advantage of less invasive treatments and prevent more serious conditions like blood clots or venous ulcers from developing.

A vein specialist can provide a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan to help you avoid complications down the line.

Seek Emergency Care Right Away if You Have These Symptoms

While varicose and spider veins are handled by a vein specialist in office, certain symptoms demand immediate medical attention.

Signs that you should head to the ER include:

• Shortness of breath and / or chest pain, a potential indicator that a blood clot has traveled to a lung
• Sudden and / or intense leg pain or cramping
• Noticeable swelling in one leg or both
• Warmth or tenderness in the area of the affected veins
• Skin discoloration on the leg

These symptoms may indicate that you have deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or a deep vein blood clot. DVT can be life threatening, as it can lead to a pulmonary embolism.

Recognizing Symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Varicose veins and spider veins are often more than just a cosmetic issue. They can be an indication of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a condition in which your veins struggle to send blood from your legs back to your heart.

This can lead to blood pooling, causing discomfort and increasing your risk of more serious issues like blood clots.

Common symptoms of CVI include:

• Persistent swelling in the lower legs or ankles
• Aching, pain, burning, throbbing, and / or cramping sensations in the legs
• Skin changes, such as discoloration or thickening around the ankles
• Itchiness or irritation near the affected veins
• Visible, bulging varicose veins or web-like spider veins

If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, even if they’re mild, it’s essential to see a vein specialist. Left untreated, CVI can lead to complications including venous ulcers and a higher risk of blood clots.

See an Emergency Vein Specialist Near Timonium, Maryland for Issues Before They Become More Serious

For those diagnosed with CVI, there are options available to relieve symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening. Some of the most effective treatments your emergency vein specialist near Timonium, Maryland may recommend include:

• At-home therapies: Staying active, managing your weight, wearing compression stockings, getting exercise, and keeping your legs elevated when possible can improve circulation and ease symptoms.
• Sclerotherapy: This minimally invasive treatment involves injecting a solution known as a sclerosing agent, which irritates the affected veins and causes them to close off, which reroutes blood to healthier veins.
• Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT): This technique uses laser energy to seal off problematic veins, improving blood circulation.

Healthier, Happier Veins Can Be Achieved at The Vein Center of Maryland!

If you’ve noticed varicose veins, spider veins, or any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s time to take action.

Contact us at 410-970-2314 to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our specialists who will guide you through your treatment options!