Anyone can be affected by the problem of varicose veins, but women between the ages of 30 and 70 are at the highest risk of this dermatology condition. If the patient notices any symptoms of the appearance of varicose veins in the legs, they should see a skin care expert.
The treatment provider will conduct a physical exam and may also perform an ultrasound test to diagnose varicose veins.
Varicose veins typically bulge out of the skin surface in the legs, and are bluish or purple in color. Pain and discomfort are often experienced by the patient, but in some cases, no pain may occur at first. Board certified dermatologists Dr. Tri H. Nguyen and Dr. George Hughes III provide varicose vein treatments to patients in Houston, Katy, Spring, The Woodlands, Texas, and surrounding locations in this amazing and tremendous Lone Star State.
Symptoms
By some estimates, almost one in three women in the US is affected by some form of varicose veins. Women in general, mothers with multiple children and obese individuals are usually more prone to developing varicose veins. Some women may experience more severe pain in the affected areas during the menstrual cycle, or while sitting or standing in one position for long. Patients should know about the following common symptoms of this dermatology condition:
- Varicose veins may appear blue, purple or red in color in the affected area of the legs
- The veins seem to bulge out of the skin surface and appear like twisted cords
- Some patients may experience pain or a heavy or achy feeling in the affected sites
- Burning or stinging sensation, throbbing, swelling and cramping in the lower legs
- Symptoms may worse when the patient sits or stands for a long time
- Itchiness in the vein site
- Occasional bleeding from the varicose veins
- Skin discoloration in the affected areas
Change in vein color, hardening of the veins, skin inflammation and ulcers near the ankle are additional symptoms that may occur in some patients. These symptoms could reveal a more severe form of vascular problem.
Symptoms of Phlebitis
If the patient experiences pain due to varicose veins, the symptoms may typically worsen during daytime. The patient may feel temporary relief by keeping the legs raised or wearing compression stockings. The area may sometimes become warm, hard, discolored and painful due to clotting in the varicose veins.
These symptoms may indicate a condition called phlebitis. This will cause discomfort but it is a temporary condition, which will resolve gradually over time. Clotting related to phlebitis occurs only in the veins on the skin surface, and does not carry the risk of deep vein thrombosis.
Other Severe Symptoms
If ulceration or skin tears are noticed, it may indicate a more severe case of varicose veins. Minor trauma may cause these veins to bleed or burst.
The dermatologist will evaluate the symptoms in the backdrop of the patient’s family and medical history to make the correct diagnosis. Board certified dermatologists Dr. Nguyen and Dr. Hughes receive patients from Houston, Katy, Spring, The Woodlands, Texas, and other cities and towns in this part of the country for varicose vein treatment.
For more information on procedures and treatments offered at Texas Surgical Dermatology PA please call 832.663.6566 or click here to contact our dermatologists. Helping patients in Houston, The Woodlands, Springs, Katy and other surrounding areas of Texas.
