Women are susceptible to many uncomfortable conditions during pregnancy, including varicose veins. Varicose veins are swollen veins that appear bulgy and near the surface of the skin. The color of the veins may appear blue or purple and create a ropey appearance across the impacted areas, most usually the legs. Varicose veins can be present in many individuals who are not pregnant, especially as they get older. However, varicose veins can get worse during pregnancy and make your legs ache and feel heavy. Here is what happens to varicose veins during pregnancy.
Impact of Varicose Veins During Pregnancy
Varicose veins can develop during pregnancy as the uterus grows and increases the pressure in your legs. The amount of blood in your veins increases while pregnant and increases the burden on the veins. The likelihood of varicose veins can also increase if your family has a history of them. Varicose veins are more common in women and the likelihood only increases with each successive pregnancy. Other factors that increase the likelihood of varicose veins developing are standing for long period of time, being obese, or having multiple children at once.
Luckily, varicose veins are not immediately threatening while you are pregnant, but you may want to treat them following delivery. Typical symptoms include achiness, pain, and swelling in the areas impacted by varicose veins. Varicose veins can become serious if you start to notice sores developing on your leg, changes in skin color, or if either leg becomes severely swollen. After giving birth, women should wear compression garments until the appearance of varicose veins fades away. If they do not fade, call the professionals at the Laser Vein Center to help you.
What to Be Aware Of
As stated, you should be aware of varicose veins during pregnancy if any of the more serious symptoms start to develop. Other serious conditions that may develop include deep vein thrombosis, where blood clots can develop in the legs and cause a lift-threatening risk if they break off. Consulting with your physician is highly recommended during this time if any symptoms start to develop.
Call for Your Consultation
Our highly trained professionals, led by Dr. Wright, have years of experience treating varicose veins that cannot be matched in the area. Call for you consultation today and see how we can help you treat your varicose veins after pregnancy and enjoy the way you look again.
