Varicose veins can be scary to look at. The blocked or pooled blood collects in the veins due to malfunctioning vein valves, making them look bulging, swollen, and twisted. They can also appear to be discolored as if they are leaking blood. Varicose veins are not a very serious condition and often have mild symptoms such as:
- Feeling of heaviness in one or both legs
- Swelling of the legs or ankles
- Difficulty standing for long periods of time
- Restlessness in the legs especially at night
- Skin discoloration
- Itching, burning, tingling, or numb sensations
- Non-healing or slow-healing wounds
However, if left untreated, the condition can worsen and lead to serious issues such as burst veins, which can be fatal.
How Do Varicose Veins Burst?
Varicose veins occur when the veins have become damaged or weak. Over time the veins of people with venous issues become weaker, causing them to rupture. As the amount of blood pooling in the veins increases, it increases the pressure on the weak veins and valves, resulting in ulcers and bleeding.
Ruptured veins can happen anywhere on the body but typically occur around the ankles and lower legs. The sudden burst of blood from the veins can seep into the surrounding tissue and even appear on the surface of the skin if it is too thin. Birst varicose veins usually happen when the person ignores painful symptoms and goes without treatment for long periods. Other situations where varicose veins are more likely to burst include:
- Taking a hot shower which can cause the veins to dilate
- Taking blood thinners for any other medical issue while having varicose veins
- A bruise, nick, or scrape on the skin that is close to or over the varicose vein
Treating A Burst Vein
If you experience a burst varicose vein, you should immediately call your doctor and go to the hospital. In the meantime, it is essential to keep the leg elevated while applying pressure to the area where the vein has burst.
The ER will most likely stop the bleeding, but to get the complete treatment, you must consult a vein specialist to determine the underlying cause of the burst vein.
Seek Professional Vascular Specialists in New York:
Varicose Veins Doctors New York provides several minimally invasive vascular treatments for mild to severe venous disorders. Our certified vascular experts can create a specialized treatment plan for you using the latest ultrasound technology to assess the condition of your veins. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how to avoid conditions such as a burst or ruptured varicose vein.
Call 212-906-9111 today to schedule a vein evaluation appointment if you believe you are suffering from a vein disorder!
