How do I know if I have varicose veins?

At enhanceskin, we are the leading local varicose vein specialist working through Nelson and Marlborough. But one of the questions people frequently ask is, “How do I know if I have varicose veins?” And it’s a good question because not all varicose veins are visible.

So, in this article, we thought we would recap and share some of the signs and symptoms associated with varicose veins.

How do I know if I have varicose veins?

Visible Signs of Varicose Veins:

Varicose Veins will often present visibly on your legs or feet. They might be blue or dark purple in colour. Furthermore, they are often lumpy, bulging or twisted in appearance.

What Lies Beneath:

However, varicose veins are not always visible, as they can be located deeper in the leg. These hidden incompetent veins can cause just as many health issues as visible bulging varicose veins.

• Your legs may feel achy, heavy or tired. Or you may feel a burning or throbbing sensation in your legs. If your legs consistently feel uncomfortable when sitting or standing for periods of time, and you feel a sense of relief when you elevate your legs, you may be suffering from varicose veins that are not visible.
• Do you suffer from restless legs, which are crampy or tingly, particularly at night? These symptoms can often be attributed to varicose veins. Past studies have shown that 80 per cent of people who have had varicose veins treated saw improvement in their restless legs syndrome and were able to sleep more comfortably at night.
• If the skin on your legs is excessively dry and itchy, this too could be a sign of underlying varicose veins.

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Of course, the best way to answer the question, “How do I know if I have varicose veins?”Is to book an appointment for a complimentary assessment and scan with Dr David Orsbourn in Nelson at our Buxton Square Clinic or at the Churchill Private Hospital in Marlborough.

After that appointment, and if you do have varicose veins, it’s time to talk treatment!

At enhanceskin, we offer minimally invasive Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) and Ultrasound Guided Foam Sclerotherapy (UGFS). They’re the gold standard varicose vein treatment, designed to be fast, relatively pain-free and totally effective. It’s walk-in and walk-out, and you can even drive yourself home afterwards. If you hate needles and stockings, you might be up for Venaseal, the medical glue that compares well with EVLA!