I used to be morbidly obese, and I lost about 70 pounds over the past two years. As I began losing weight I noticed my veins were sticking out on my legs. At first it wasn’t too noticeable but now I have a very obvious problem. I have bulging veins on the outside of my right leg, on my inner right thigh, and on my outer left thigh. I also have various smaller spider veins and broken veins on other parts of my legs. Sometimes they hurt or itch or just feel uncomfortable. It is also hard for me to stand for very long and I have a hard time at work, where I stand all day.
These veins have been a cause for concern and self esteem issues in me. I went to the Emergency room once because I do not have medical insurance to see a vein specialist, and they said it was because I am still overweight. Which I am. However exercising has become difficult because I am constantly paranoid of making the veins worse.
I have tried support stockings, better shoes, walking, stretching, drinking more water, everything.
I am also concerned because someone told me my femoral artery is located in my inner right thigh. The vein bulging out there is huge, it is sticking out so far that I am afraid I will nick it accidentally.
Is this a serious issue that needs to be addressed right away or can I continue losing weight safely? Also how can I seek medical treatment if I can’t afford it? This is something that has been causing me so much stress and anxiety and I just want to know that it’s not a serious problem.