What Skin Changes Are Associated With Vein Disease?

Over time, it’s common for your skin to undergo some changes. Whether it’s due to sun damage or normal aging, you may start noticing some differences in your skin’s tone and texture. Because changes in skin tone and texture can also be a sign of vein disease, however, it’s important to be able to differentiate the causes of discoloration and receive any necessary treatment as soon as possible. 

What Causes Common Skin Changes?

Even though blood is red, circulatory issues like vein disease can cause veins to appear bluish or purplish and take on a twisted, bulging appearance beneath the surface of the skin. This vein discoloration is often more noticeable on the thighs, knees or chest. It can also be more prominent depending on your individual complexion. 

Vein disease can also cause noticeable discoloration on the surface of the skin, especially along the lower leg and ankle area. Venous discoloration can occur whenever red cells decompose and leave behind an iron pigment (hemosiderin) which then creates a brownish skin hue.

In addition to discoloration, venous insufficiency can also cause skin changes such as dryness, cracking, firmness and thickening. When the skin is compromised, it can eventually lead to a slow-healing ulcer.

Should I Be Worried About Skin Changes?

Although skin tone and texture changes are not always significant concerns, venous discoloration can be a symptom of a more serious condition. If darkened or discolored skin is due to vein disease, you’ll likely experience other symptoms, such as:

• An achy or tired sensation in your legs
• Edema or swelling in your lower legs or feet
• Enlarged veins
• Dry, itchy skin
• Rashes
• Leathery skin texture
• Skin sensitivity
• Sores, especially around the ankle
• Tight feeling skin
• Venous eczema

Left untreated, these conditions can get worse or lead to Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolisms. 

Treatments for Skin Discoloration and Varicose Veins

At Central Florida Vein and Vascular Center, our team of board-certified, fellowship-trained vascular surgeons is here to diagnose, treat and prevent vein disease. No matter what symptoms you are experiencing, we are dedicated to delivering high-level care and comfort through our minimally invasive procedures.

We treat patients of all ages, ensuring that each one understands their venous care and what’s best for them. We perform procedures right in our office, helping save you time and eliminating the need for referrals to other providers.

Because our venous procedures are minimally invasive, you’ll experience less pain and downtime afterward. In fact, you’ll be able to return to light-duty work immediately after your procedure. 

Schedule a Consultation With One of Our Physicians Today 

Want to determine whether your skin tone or texture changes are caused by venous insufficiency? At Central Florida Vein and Vascular Center, we can find the cause of your skin discoloration and help you get the treatment you need.

We invite you to schedule a consultation with us to learn more about our minimally invasive treatment options.