HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Varicose Veins
When To Call a Doctor
Call your doctor if you have varicose veins and:
- Your leg suddenly becomes swollen and painful. You might have a blood clot in a deep vein, which can be serious and may need prompt attention.
- Skin over a varicose vein begins to bleed on its own or when it is injured. The skin over varicose veins is often thin and can bleed heavily. If this happens, elevate your leg and apply pressure directly to the vein to stop the bleeding.
- Your leg has a tender lump. This could be a clot or inflammation in a vein just under the skin, which is usually not dangerous but may need treatment.
- You develop an open sore (ulcer).
- Your varicose vein symptoms don't improve with home treatment, or there are symptoms you are concerned about.
Watchful waiting
Varicose veins are common and are generally not a serious health problem. With a doctor keeping an eye on the condition, most people can manage varicose veins with home treatment, such as exercising, wearing compression stockings, and elevating the legs.
Who to see
Primary care doctors (including Reference internists Opens New Window, Reference family medicine doctors Opens New Window, and Reference general practitioners Opens New Window) can diagnose, treat, and monitor varicose veins and most of the complications they may cause.
Minimally invasive procedures or surgery may be done by:
- A Reference surgeon Opens New Window who specializes in blood vessel problems (vascular surgeon).
- A Reference dermatologist Opens New Window.
- A Reference plastic surgeon Opens New Window.
- Other doctors with special training and experience in treating varicose veins.
To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Reference Making the Most of Your Appointment.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference August 17, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference David A. Szalay, MD - Vascular Surgery |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
