Varicose veins can be unsightly and uncomfortable, but did you know that they can also pop or burst? If you have varicose veins or a popped vein, it’s important to understand what causes a varicose vein rupture so you can take measures to prevent it from happening. Let’s take a look at the factors that can cause burst blood vessels in the leg.
What is a Varicose Vein?
Before we discuss why varicose veins burst, let’s review what a varicose vein is. A varicose vein is the result of weakened valves in the veins or blood vessels of the legs. These valves normally work by pushing blood back up towards the heart, but when they become weak, popped, exploding or damaged, blood pools in the vein and causes it to swell and bulge out of the skin. This bulging creates what we commonly refer to as a “varicose vein.”
Risk Factors for Varicose Vein Bursting
When a varicose vein swells too much, it can put pressure on nearby tissue and cause it to rupture. That being said, certain risk factors make some people more likely than others to experience a broken vein. For example, those who are overweight or obese are more likely to experience this complication due to their increased abdominal pressure putting additional strain on their leg veins and causing a vein burst.
Other Risk Factors for Popped Blood Vessel In The Leg
Other risk factors include age (as we get older our bodies become less able to regulate blood flow), genetics (some individuals may be born with weakened valves), pregnancy (due to increased weight and hormones), strenuous activities such as running or jumping, sitting or standing for long periods without taking breaks (this puts extra pressure on your legs), smoking (toxins in cigarettes damage blood vessels) and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol (alcohol increases your risk of dehydration) can cause exploding veins or blown veins.
What to Do Immediately If Your Varicose Vein Bursts:
Apply Pressure To The Popped Vein
If you have experienced a varicose vein burst, it is important to take immediate action. The most important step in treating this medical condition is to apply direct pressure to the affected area with a clean cloth or gauze near the blown vein. This will help to stop any bleeding and prevent infection.
Elevate The Area of the Varicose Vein Rupture
Once you have applied pressure, it is important to elevate the affected area above your heart level to reduce swelling. Keeping the area elevated will also help reduce pain and improve circulation in the area, helping it heal faster.
Get Medical Attention For The Blown Vein
Visit an ER or a Vein Treatment Center. If you’re in the Tampa Bay Area, visit the Vein Institute of Pinellas.
What are the signs of a Ruptured Vein?
- Pain: A popped vein can be quite painful. You may feel a sharp pain when the vein pops, and the area may continue to hurt for some time afterwards.
- Swelling: Swelling is another common sign of a popped vein. The area around the vein may become swollen and tender to the touch.
- Bruising: Bruising is another common sign of a popped vein. The area around the vein may turn black and blue as blood leaks into the tissue.
- Inflammation: Inflammation is another common sign of a popped vein. The area around the vein may become red and inflamed as blood vessels swell.
- Redness: A popped vein can also cause redness in the affected area. This redness may be mild or severe, and it may worsen when you move your affected limb or apply pressure to the area.
Treating Popped Varicose Veins and Blood Vessels
In addition to first aid measures, it is important to seek medical attention immediately as this could be an indication of something more serious such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. if you have experienced a burst vein.
Prescription Medications for Burst Varicose Veins
Your doctor may prescribe oral medications such as blood thinners, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatory drugs depending on the severity of your condition and any underlying medical conditions that you may have.
Compression Stockings For Ruptured Leg Veins and Blood Flow
It is also likely that your doctor will recommend wearing compression stockings as part of your treatment plan. Compression stockings help reduce swelling by providing pressure on the affected areas of your legs which helps improve blood circulation and reduces pain.
Surgical Treatment for a Vein Popped
Your doctor may also suggest an endovenous laser treatment procedure as part of an overall treatment plan for varicose veins. Endovenous laser ablation involves using laser energy directed through a small catheter inserted into the affected vein to close off damaged sections of the vessel wall which helps stop bleeding and prevents further damage from occurring in other parts of the body due to improper blood flow caused by ruptured vessels in the legs.
If you do suspect that one of your veins has ruptured, seek medical attention immediately as this could indicate an underlying health condition that should be addressed right away. At Vein Institute of Pinellas, we are here to help. Contact us today for a comprehensive vein scan.
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