‘Purple veins‘, a term used to describe the visible bluish-purple veins that commonly appear on our legs and face, is more than simply a cosmetic problem. They usually indicate an underlying issue with our vascular health that may require the attention of a vascular specialist Sydney based or elsewhere.
Why Do Veins Appear Purple?
Our veins can become visible due to a few reasons. First and foremost, it may be due to our skin’s transparency. The thinner the skin, the more noticeable the veins below the surface tend to be. This transparency is why our veins might appear blue or purple – a distortive effect known as the Tyndall effect. Essentially, when light penetrates the skin, it is absorbed and refracted by the skin and veins, creating the illusion that the veins are blue or purple.
What Causes Purple Veins?
Although age, transparency of skin, and the Tyndall effect explains why our veins are visible and appear blue, it does not account for the abnormal manifestation of purple veins. There might be various factors that cause purple veins, particularly on the legs. One such factor is venous insufficiency, a condition where blood doesn’t flow back properly to the heart, causing blood to pool in the veins. In more severe cases, this can lead to varicose veins, which are thick, ropy, and often purple veins that can be seen and felt right under the skin surface.
When to See a Specialist?
While having visible veins may not always be a cause for concern, certain signs warranted a consultation with a vascular specialist, especially if you are symptomatic, for example, feeling a persistent and unexplained pain in the legs, experiencing leg fatigue or heaviness, or if the veins are warm to touch and swollen. Hence it is crucial to have a consultation with a professional like a vascular specialist Sydney based to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment For Purple Veins
The treatment for purple veins varies depending on the cause and may include lifestyle changes, conservative treatment methods or surgery. Non-surgical treatments available include lifestyle modifications, compression stocking therapy, and medication. If your condition is more severe, then surgical treatments like sclerotherapy, endovenous laser treatment, or vein stripping maybe needed.
How to Prevent Purple Veins?
Preventing purple veins primarily involves promoting good vein health. This could be through maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly to promote good blood circulation, consuming a diet rich in bioflavonoids (found in fruits and vegetables), and avoiding standing or sitting for prolonged periods. It is also suggested to avoid wearing tight clothes and high heels that can hamper blood flow. Most importantly, regular check-ups with a vascular specialist Sydney based or anywhere else is crucial, as early intervention can prevent the escalation of venous issues.
Overall, while the issue of purple veins can be complex, as it implicates various potential vascular abnormalities, there is ample effective treatment available, especially when the condition is diagnosed in its early stages. In such scenarios, the guidance from a seasoned vascular specialist Sydney based could be invaluable.