varicose vein treatment timing

When Should Varicose Veins Be Treated?

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It is estimated that around half of our population will suffer from a vein issue at one time in their lives and although commonly thought to be a problem that affects older patients, varicose veins can develop from your 20s onwards.

Varicose veins tend to occur mostly in the legs. Their large bulging appearance can cause a lot of embarrassment and frustration. However, did you know they can also become a serious health complication? Many patients are unsure when to seek varicose vein treatment, if at all.

If you’re worried about your varicose veins, here you’ll discover when to seek treatment.

Could varicose veins disappear by themselves?

Although in very mild cases, varicose veins could appear to have vanished after making lifestyle changes, it’s rare for them to fully disappear. You can control them, but they are usually still there underneath the surface. This is because they are usually caused by weakening or damage to the veins.

If you have moderate to severe varicose veins, they aren’t going to disappear by themselves. It’s also unlikely you’ll be able to reduce them if they are particularly severe.

When is the best time to seek treatment?

If you suspect you have varicose veins, it’s best to seek treatment as early as possible. Even if they are barely visible, treating them early ensures they don’t become worse. Another benefit of seeking early treatment is that you won’t need to undergo invasive procedures.

There are so many different treatment options available now, many of which are minimally invasive. So, if you want to save yourself from invasive surgery, seeking treatment for varicose veins as early as possible is highly recommended.

Warning signs to watch out for

There are some warning signs to watch out for when you’re suffering from varicose veins. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek treatment immediately:

  • Development of a rash or sores on the legs
  • The vein becomes red, swollen, warm and tender to touch
  • Pain
  • Skin colour change around calf and ankle
  • Bleeding of the vein

Even if you don’t experience negative side effects, seeking treatment for varicose veins early is recommended. If you suspect you may have varicose veins, book a consultation with a vein specialist today.