True varicose veins can result in significant medical complications. Bleeding, thrombophlebitis (blood clots), and ulcerations (large sores) may occur if varices are left untreated. These complications are the result of the excess pressure and sluggish flow in the veins.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Varicose veins can be left untreated. What happens over time is that more veins will form, your risk of developing superficial thrombophlebitis increases, there is always a potential to bleed from the veins and, ultimately, there is the risk of developing chronic venous insufficiency from persistent venous hypertension, which can lead to ulcer formation. The medical management for varicose veins is to wear support hose (compression stockings).

Published on Jul 11, 2012

The disease progresses over time. The veins get larger but more importantly the circulation continues to worsen. The first symptoms are swelling, followed by itching, skin inflammation and discoloration and finally ulcerations that are a very difficult problem to deal with. Additionally superficial phlebitis (blood clots in the varicosities) can become a recurring problem. These problems can be forestalled with religious wearing of compression stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

The natural history is that of slow progression. So yes, left untreated, varicose veins tend to enlarge. There is a less than 1% risk of developing skin changes which predisposes one to the formation of skin ulcers.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Varicose veins can be treated conservatively with venous compression hose. With compression hose you can slow the progression of the varicose veins and their related symptoms.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Generally there are few risks except progressive enlargement of the veins with associated pain. Occasionally they can develop phlebitis(inflammation and clots) but this is uncommon.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Yes venous ulcers
Blood clots

Published on Jul 11, 2012