Complications of Varicose Veins

Varicose Vein Complications

In addition to the several side effects of varicose veins, there are several complications that may occur. These complications are rare but, if present, usually develop several years after initial diagnosis for most patients.

The complication vary greatly in severity but some effects have the potential to be fatal, such as the possibility of pulmonary embolism occurring following deep vein thrombosis.

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. Phlebitis

Phlebitis, also known as thrombophlebitis, refers to inflammation of the veins that may be accompanied by the formation of hard and tender clots. This is a distinct condition from deep vein thrombosis, however, and is markedly less severe and may not always require treatment.

This commonly results in symptoms of swollen, painful, reddened and heated skin due to the inflammation in the area.

. Bleeding

Rarely, patients with varicose veins experience a significant knock to their legs, resulting in bleeding from the ruptured vein. This can be quite alarming for patients as a significant volume of blood can be lost in a short period of time as the blood flows backwards out of the vein.

However, this complication can be managed relatively easily with adequate care. Simply raise the area and apply firm pressure to the veins, which is usually sufficient to stop the immediate flow of blood. This can be followed by pharmaceutical care to reduce the risk of a subsequent bleed.

. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

In some cases, blood clots can form in varicose veins and lead to serious consequences such as pulmonary embolism. It is not clear if varicose veins are likely to cause DVT, but the two conditioners are certainly related.

The development of blood clots in superficial veins is the most common and up to 1 in 5 of these may progress into a thrombus of the deep vein in the leg. If DVT is suspected it is essential that the patient seek appropriate medical therapy to reduce the risk of embolisation and further damage.

. Venous Insufficiency

If the blood flow remains disrupted for an extended period of time, it can affect the oxygen exchange and processing of nutrients and waste products, which is a condition known as chronic venous insufficiency. This then places the individual at a higher risk of other complications.

. Dermatitis and Complications of the Skin

There are several complications of varicose veins that are related to the skin including:

. Varicose eczema - results in red, scaly and flaky skin in the affected area. Some blisters and crust on the skin may also form.

. Lipodermatosclerosis - is a more serious complication that leads to hardened and tight skin, which may change colour to red or brown. This usually occurs in the calf area of the legs and is often non-reversible.

. Venous Ulcers

A venous ulcer may develop in a patient with varicose veins, due to the increased venous pressure in the lower legs. This occurs as a result of fluid building up underneath the skin and causing the area to swell and create an ulcer, most commonly near the ankles.

In most cases, a small injury such as a bite or scratch take longer to heal due to the insufficient blood flow to the area, which is responsible for causing the ulcer.

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10 common questions about What are the varicose vein complications

1Is it dangerous if a varicose vein bursts?

Although varicose veins are a benign clinical pathology, they conceal the danger of rupture, especially if left untreated. The subsequent venous bleeding can be severely intensive and can quickly lead to a loss of consciousness and death

2When should I be concerned about varicose veins?

When to Call a Doctor for Varicose Veins Unexplained pain or swelling in a leg particularly suggests a blood clot. Varicose veins by themselves do not usually cause a leg to swell. Varicose veins alone are relatively harmless, but every now and then they can cause minor problems.

3How do you know if varicose veins are dangerous?

Deep Vein Thrombosis is the most serious condition related to varicose veins. DVT usually results in what's known as a pulling sensation in the legs, stemming from a blood clot. The patient may feel as if their nerves are being pinched with increased redness and swelling in the legs

4What happens if a varicose vein bursts?

If a varicose vein ruptures, but the skin is not broken, you will experience bruising. Internal bleeding from any source can cause dizziness or fainting if enough blood is lost.

5What happens if a varicose vein explodes?

The untreated varicose veins have a higher than usual risk of a spontaneous rupture and bleeding. ... The result of this high pressure condition can be a spontaneous burst and heavy bleeding. Patients often worry they have ruptured an artery because of the forceful pulsating-like high blood flow from the vein

6Can you get a blood clot from varicose veins?

Unlike deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or blood clots that form in the deep veins of the legs, the superficial clots associated with varicose veins do not usually travel to the lungs or cause a pulmonary embolism (PE) or blood clot in the lung. ... However, with severe varicose veins, there can be a risk that a DVT might occur.

7Do veins grow back after removal?

Veins can grow back even after they're cut away, and sometimes the laser treatment fails to seal a vein completely, allowing the blood flow to gradually return.

8Are varicose veins a sign of poor health?

Spider veins are harmless themselves, but can be a symptom of poor circulation or a sign of increased risk for varicose veins. Varicose veins are more prominent—bulging out from just beneath the surface of the skin. They may also appear swollen, twisted, or engorged—almost like they might burst

9Should I be worried about spider veins?

It's also a good idea to avoid wearing tight underwear or clothing. If you already have spider veins, the increased pressure could make them worse. Spider veins aren't usually cause for concern or a medical condition that needs treatment. But if you're uncomfortable or bothered by them, talk to your doctor

10Can a person die from varicose veins?

Venous disease, including varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency, is one of the most common chronic medical conditions. Haemorrhage from rupture of varicose veins in the legs is rare and can lead to sudden death. ... In this case, an 88-year-old man was found dead in a large pool of blood at home.

Complications of Varicose Veins