Skin discoloration should not be ignored

When you experience symptoms of varicose veins—including leg swelling, achiness, and fatigue—it’s wise to seek a vein specialist’s evaluation, even if you don’t see visible signs. However, if you notice skin discoloration, it may indicate that venous disease has already advanced, and you should seek treatment as soon as possible.

Skin discoloration is a symptom of advanced venous insufficiency. It can appear as circumferential redness around your ankles or as high as your calves, and the redness can worsen as the day goes on, a sign of inflammation.

Brown discoloration may be visible inside, outside, or around your ankles, particularly in the Achilles area. If your lower legs look darker, something is going on, and you should have them checked out, regardless of what you may be told. And that’s part of an endemic problem: Many people are told these visual symptoms are simply cosmetic concerns and can be ignored. If anyone is telling you that, they do not understand venous disease. You know your body. Trust yourself. If your symptoms are giving you pause, there is likely a reason.

In addition, we’re entering the colder months, when we’re less likely to walk outdoors. But strong calf muscles are essential for moving blood and toxins up and out of our lower legs, so keep walking!

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, please call our office: • leg pain • heaviness or fatigue • itching, tingling, or burning • inflammation • skin discoloration • restless legs syndrome.

Dr. Sonja Stiller is a diplomat of both the American Board of Emergency Medicine and the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine and the UIP 2023 lead chair for scientific abstracts. She is the founder of the Center for Advanced Vein Care and Elite Vascular Wellness, a Tier 1 provider with Lake Health Hospital System. The center is at 7200 Mentor Ave. in Mentor. For an appointment, call 440-710-1140 or visit YourHealthyVeins.com.