A question I get asked a lot is “Are varicose veins dangerous? “ Well for the majority of people, they are not a major health issue even though superficial vein reflux (which is the cause of varicose veins) does cause ache, swelling, itch, throbbing and other symptoms as well as being a risk factor for DVT, varicose eczema, phlebitis and leg ulcers. Many of the symptoms of varicose veins can be alleviated by wearing medical grade graduated support socks or stockings. Medical compression hosiery will not cure varicose veins, but wearing good quality compression socks will help with the ache, itch, swelling and complications of varicose veins. Many specialists believe that compression stockings reduce the risk of progression of the varicose vein disease. Compression hosiery also reduces the risks of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Nevertheless, Varicose Veins usually get worse with time and so early treatment is advisable.
Recently, I was interviewed by Ruth Wood who asked me a series of questions on topics related to how varicose veins affect you and your health. You can watch the interview below.
Contact me today for a confidential chat
If you’re worried about your veins and would like a confidential chat please do get in touch. I am happy to offer simple advice by telephone or email for free and without obligation.
The VeinCare Centre also offers a screening assessment with our vascular technologist. For £25 you can have a scan with Wendy Parsons. She is not a doctor and so she could not give you medical advice but she can check your deep veins and your varicose veins and give you an idea of how bad they are and whether laser might be suitable for you. If you would like to have an appointment with Wendy please call 0800 698 3467.