phone icon

Got Varicose Veins? Here Are 4 Signs It’s Time to Seek Treatment

Author: mdconnect Posted: March 15, 2025 Category: Varicose Veins

Bumpy, lumpy, and bulging varicose veins are often a major cosmetic concern — and they may represent serious health problems too. 

At South Austin Vein Center, we’re known for our groundbreaking minimally invasive treatments for vein disease. Our founder and medical director, Dr. Michael Di Iorio, is dual board-certified in vascular and interventional and diagnostic radiology. Dr. Di Iorio’s multiple advanced ultrasound certifications and our team’s high-level training are leading reasons why Austin, TX, patients see us as the best source for vein disease solutions.

In our locations on Davis Lane in South Austin and Bee Cave Road in Austin, TX, we offer leading-edge procedures like radiofrequency ablation, VenaSeal®, and sclerotherapy. If you’re wondering whether it’s time to consider treatment, here are four key signs.

Leg Pain, Aching, or Heaviness

Do your legs feel twice as heavy as usual sometimes? It’s a classic sign of vein disease. Alongside leg heaviness, many patients with varicose veins experience deep aching and tiredness. These problems arise because leg circulation isn’t what it should be. Symptoms typically worsen after long periods of standing or sitting and may prevent you from taking part in the activities you enjoy.

Swelling in the Legs or Ankles

Lower extremity swelling (including leg and ankle puffiness) is another common sign of vein disease requiring treatment. Swelling points to poor blood flow caused by varicose veins. As fluid builds up, it can cause discomfort and long-term skin damage.

Skin Changes or Discoloration

Left untreated, varicose veins can cause unhealthy changes in the skin around your ankles and lower legs. Varicose veins weaken under pressure, causing blood to pool and capillaries to rupture. This releases hemoglobin, leaving iron deposits (hemosiderin) darkening the skin. This is often prominent in the ankle area. Over time, the skin may darken or develop a leathery texture, leading to more serious issues.

Non-healing sores or Ulcers

In advanced cases, varicose veins can lead to skin breakdown. This may cause venous ulcers, or open sores, that take a long time to heal due to poor circulation. These ulcers are prone to infection and often require advanced wound healing support.

Treatment Options for Varicose Veins 

At South Austin Vein Center, we offer minimally invasive solutions for varicose veins, including:

  • Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
  • VenaSeal
  • Foam Sclerotherapy (Varithena®)
  • Ambulatory Microphlebectomy

These procedures reduce discomfort, improve circulation, and enhance the appearance of your legs while requiring little to no downtime.

Varicose Veins in Austin, TX

If you’re experiencing symptoms of varicose veins, call South Austin Vein Center at 737-258-4856 to schedule a consultation at our Davis Lane or Bee Cave Road office in Austin, TX.