Many people who have untreated varicose veins wonder what causes darkening of the skin and how to treat it, known as hyperpigmentation. Varicose veins occur when the veins in the legs are not functioning effectively at returning blood back up to the heart. Blood begins to pool and veins swell as the pressure inside increases, often causing inflammation and redness, which can advance to brown discoloration.
This brown staining around the ankles is caused from red blood cells leaking from the veins and into the surrounding skin. The skin may become dry, itchy or leathery, and can progress into open sores or skin ulcers, creating a serious risk of bacterial infection.
When there are changes in the skin due to varicose veins and spider veins, the earlier that treatment is sought with a specialist vein doctor, the better the prognosis. Once skin changes advance, they may become more difficult to treat.
With modern laser technology, varicose veins can be eliminated safely, effectively and virtually pain-free, with little to no downtime. Additionally, most major health insurance carriers provide coverage for the treatment of vein disease and venous insufficiency when medically necessary.
If you are concerned about skin changes including discoloration due to varicose veins and would like more information about treating your varicose veins, please contact the Goldman Vein Institute today at one of our three convenient locations:
Jupiter 561-625-9853, Wellington 561-790-4550, or West Palm Beach 561-429-8236, or visit us at www.goldmanveininstitute.com.
At the Goldman Vein Institute, our mission is to provide our patients with comprehensive care for varicose veins, spider veins, leg ulcers, restless legs, and other conditions caused by venous insufficiency. Our highly-qualified and experienced, board-certified vein specialists, Dr. Goldman and Dr. Varghese-Goldman, combine their extensive knowledge and experience, with the latest innovations in vein treatments.
With our offices in Jupiter, Wellington, and West Palm Beach Florida, the Goldman Vein Institute serves patients from Stuart, Hobe Sound, Tequesta, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, North Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, Loxahatchee, Royal Palm Beach, Wellington, Hialeah, Sunny Isles, Bay Harbor, Bal Harbour, Miami Beach, Aventura, Surfside, Hallandale, and Hollywood, and we welcome patients across South Florida to call us today or visit our state-of-the-art vein centers, where we provide the latest in vein treatment technology.
