Expert answer:
Yes, varicose veins can cause thrombosis, because the blood flow slows down inside these dilated veins, which favors clot formation. This formation of blood clots within the veins is called venous thrombosis.
If the clot detaches from the vein and falls into the bloodstream, it can reach the lungs and pulmonary embolism, which can lead to death.
See also What is deep venous thrombosis? Is it normal for skipped veins?
Besides the venous thrombosis, varicose veins may also bring other complications in the long term, such as:
- Swelling;
- Pain;
- Cramps;
- Feeling of weight in the legs;
- Spots on the skin;
- Leg skin atrophy;
- Erysipelas;
- Itching;
- Desquamation;
- Varicose ulcers.
If left untreated, varicose veins may be no more than an aesthetic problem. It is therefore important to seek treatment with an angiologist.
