Occasionally, varicose veins can become swollen and irritated enough that a blood clot spontaneously develops, prohibiting blood flow through the vein. This is referred to as Superficial Thrombophlebitis. It is not life-threatening, but it generally requires anti-inflammatory medications. Many patients who experience a superficial thrombophlebitis have underlying venous insufficiency.

If varicose veins are left untreated, the skin surrounding them may begin to itch or burn. Over time, the skin may become dry, flaky and darker in color. These skin changes are caused by high pressure in the veins from a reverse flow of blood and result in poor nutrition to the skin. Eventually, these skin changes can lead to a venous leg ulcer which is very painful and difficult to heal. The inside (medial) or outside (lateral) aspect of the calf or ankle are common locations for a venous leg ulcer to occur. A diagnostic ultrasound is essential to determine if the ulcer is caused by underlying venous insufficiency, and if it exists, a procedure will be recommended. Once treatment of the underlying problem is completed, the wound often heals very quickly.

Haemorrhaging (bleeding) from a vein can be a frightening experience, but it is more common than you may think. When veins are close to the skin’s surface and under high pressure, even a simple trauma may bring about a bleeding episode. Stopping the bleeding can be difficult and may result in a trip to the emergency room. Following immediate care to stop the bleeding, treatment with Sclerotherapy (injections of medicine) is often required to close the vein and prevent further bleeding episodes.

Venous oedema, which is sometimes confused with lymphoedema, is a swelling of the legs caused by a malfunction or obstruction of veins, not lymphatic vessels. It is a common chronic condition, particularly in those of advancing years. It is characterised by lower leg oedema, heaviness, tightness, aching and discomfort, all of which are relieved, to some extent, by elevation. This oedema is called venous oedema.

Varicose eczema is a long-term skin condition that affects the lower legs and is common in people with varicose veins. It is also known as venous eczema, gravitational eczema and stasis eczema. Like all types of eczema, the affected skin becomes itchy, red and swollen, dry and flaky, scaly or crusty.