What are the symptoms of varicose veins?

If you exhibit any of these symptoms, consult your physician.

Varicose veins are the result of a problem within the vein itself. There are a number of symptoms, including:

• Itching or irritating rash on the legs or near the ankles
• Tenderness around the area of the varicose vein
• In severe cases, darkening of the skin
• Numbness in the legs
• Swelling in the legs
• Easily tired legs
• Leg heaviness
• Aching pain

Why treat varicose veins?

Taking steps to treat and prevent varicose veins can help keep your legs and your entire body healthy. In addition to being painful and embarrassing, varicose veins, if left untreated, can enlarge and worsen. Some health risks that can arise from severe varicose veins include:

• Ongoing irritation, swelling, and painful rashes of the legs
• Sores or ulcers on the skin around varicose veins
• Severe venous insufficiency that may slow the return of blood to the heart
• Risk of clotting, phlebitis, infection and resulting danger to lungs and heart