Varicose veins are a common condition we should all be aware of, as they can increase your risk of blood clots. But understanding varicose veins risks is important for preventing serious complications, and we’re here to help.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- what blood clots are, and how they’re related to varicose veins
- some simple lifestyle changes that can help reduce varicose veins risks
- medical treatments for varicose veins that can help avoid the risk of blood clots
Let’s get started!
What Are Blood Clots and How Are They Related to Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are a condition in which veins become enlarged, twisted, and swollen due to weak or damaged vein walls and valves. This condition is not only unsightly but can also increase the risk of blood clots because they cause blood to pool or stagnate in the veins.
Blood clots can be harmful because they can block blood flow, leading to complications such as:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- superficial thrombophlebitis
Understanding the Varicose Veins Risks: Deep Vein Thrombosis and Superficial Thrombophlebitis
We never want to be alarmists when talking about veins and risks. But we also believe knowledge gives you power! So let’s briefly look at these two conditions while noting that there are ways to avoid them ever happening to you.
DVT can occur when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins, particularly in the leg.
The symptoms of DVT can be difficult to detect and range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area.
The problem is that, if left untreated, DVT can lead to severe complications, such as pulmonary embolism (PE), which can be life-threatening. That’s because when PE occurs, a blood clot has broken loose from your vein and traveled to your lungs, causing breathing difficulties and other serious health problems.
Superficial thrombophlebitis is when a blood clot forms in a vein near the skin’s surface.
Although it’s generally less serious than DVT, it can still cause discomfort and pain.
Symptoms of superficial thrombophlebitis include redness, warmth, and tenderness around the affected area, and in some cases, the affected vein may become hard and swollen.
While the condition can sometimes resolve on its own after a few weeks, if the problem persists, treatment options may be recommended to alleviate the symptoms and prevent complications.
That’s because untreated superficial thrombophlebitis can increase the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis.
No one wants to have to deal with blood clots. And since we mentioned ways to avoid either of these two conditions occurring, let’s move on!
Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Varicose Veins From Worsening
There are a number of lifestyle changes you can make to reduce this varicose veins risks. In addition to the suggestion of making simple changes, such as the following time-proven tips!
- Regular exercise and movement: Exercise helps improve blood flow and prevents blood from pooling in your veins. Walking, running, and cycling are great exercises to incorporate into your routine.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put pressure on your veins, making varicose veins worse.
- Avoid standing or sitting for long periods: This can cause blood to pool in your veins. If you must stand or sit for a long time for your job, take breaks and move around every 30 minutes.
- Wear compression stockings: Compression stockings help improve blood flow and prevent blood from pooling in your veins. Your doctor can prescribe these to ensure the correct grade.
- Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fiber and low in salt can help prevent constipation and reduce swelling.
It’s important to note that these changes can help prevent varicose veins and aid in managing any existing symptoms.
Additionally, while these lifestyle changes are a great starting point, consulting with a medical professional for a personalized approach to varicose vein prevention and treatment is the best route to not giving house room to those blood clots!
Medical Treatment Options to Avoid the Risk of Blood Clots
If lifestyle changes don’t do the trick in improving your varicose veins, don’t worry. There are several different medical treatments available to help you avoid any risks associated with blood clots. These options include:
- Sclerotherapy: The practitioner injects a solution into the affected vein, causing it to shrink and eventually disappear.
- Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT): Laser heat is used to close the affected vein.
- VenaSeal closure system: This shuts and seals the damaged vein, allowing blood to flow through healthier veins instead.
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy: The affected vein is removed through a series of small punctures made in the skin.
As we said earlier, it’s always a good idea to see a vein specialist to find the best treatment option for you. This will help reduce the risk of blood clots and improve the appearance of your varicose veins.
Keep Your Health in Check and Prevent Varicose Veins Risks
It’s important to understand the risks associated with varicose veins so you can take steps to prevent blood clots and maintain your overall health.
The simple lifestyle changes we mentioned above can go a long way in reducing varicose veins risks. But in the rare case where these changes aren’t effective for you, you can access medical treatments to reduce your risk of blood clots.
To determine the best treatment option for you, it’s best to seek the advice of a vein specialist. Remember, it’s never too early to take action to protect your health!
Denver Vein Center Can Help
Varicose veins come with risks, no doubt. But at Denver Vein Center we want you to take control of your leg health and step outside with confidence this summer.
So – if you have any doubts at all about swelling or pain in your veins, whether it feels deep or superficial, schedule a consultation today and let’s get your varicose veins sorted!