I first noticed my varicose vein problem in 2004. (It’s actually useful for me to read about it in my own blog post, because I don’t remember the details anymore.)

11 years later, my varicose veins are larger and worse (mainly in the right leg), but have never been painful or a real problem. Until two days ago.

Now when I stand up after a night’s sleep, pain goes shooting into the area behind my right knee, which has also become swollen. It wasn’t too bad two days ago, but it’s getting progressively worse. As of today, the skin around the swollen bulge is red and puffy, and warm to the touch. Looks like it has progressed to some kind of venous thrombosis. SS got a doctor on the phone, and while there’s only a small chance of any really serious complications, he urged me to take it easy until it can be treated.

So I need to stay off my feet as much as possible for a while, while medication deals with the blood clot. Then I’ll need to get something done about the now serious varicose veins. I’m going to have to miss some work (I’m going to the hospital tomorrow), but I’m pretty sure it won’t affect the upcoming Christmas trip.