distended superficial leg veins
• Leg pain (an aching or cramping feeling)
• Heaviness/tiredness
• Burning or tingling sensations
• Swelling/throbbing
• Tender areas around the veins

If you suffer from these symptoms, you may have venous reflux disease. Venous reflux disease, also known as venous insufficiency, is a medical condition that affects the circulation of blood in the legs and commonly produces varicose veins.

COMPLICATIONS
Unfortunately, varicose veins will not fade away without treatment and may aggravate over time. If left untreated, sufferers are at risk for further complications including:
• Inflammation (phlebitis)
• Blood clots (e.g., DVT) and severe infections. Blood clots can be very dangerous because they can move from leg veins and travel to the lungs. Blood clots in the lungs are life-threatening because they can block the heart and lungs from functioning.
• Ankle sores or skin ulcers
• Bleeding
• Ongoing irritation, swelling and painful rashes of the legs

Zelda Billingy is a member of the American College of Phlebology. For more information, call 877-722-0312 or visit http://www.varicoseveinlasercenter.com.