Varicose veins are often seen as an aesthetic concern due to their bulging appearance but this medical condition is caused by poor circulation and has physical symptoms. Leg pain can be one of the early signs of varicose vein development. Here’s what you should know about the relationship.
How Varicose Veins Develop
The veins in your legs work against gravity to help blood move back to the heart. The valves and muscles involved in this process may become less efficient over time. In response, blood starts to pool in the veins, leading to a visually prominent appearance that can resemble a rope.
Multiple factors can contribute to varicose veins, including:
- Age
- Pregnancy
- Standing for most of the day
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Genetics
- Routine high-impact exercise
Before or when varicose veins first appear, you may experience other symptoms, including:
- An aching or burning sensation in the legs
- Heavy, fatigued legs
- More pronounced muscle cramping
- Swelling in the legs
- Itchy skin
- Restless legs syndrome
- Skin discoloration and texture changes
- Blood clots
Leg Pain and Varicose Veins
Pain from varicose veins often develops in response to poor circulation and inflammation.
To avoid confusion with a muscle or joint issue, discomfort from varicose veins often resembles or occurs with:
- Significant muscle cramping
- A dull, deep or burning ache
- Swelling, especially in the lower legs
- Itching in your legs
- Skin ulcers
Varicose vein pain is often intermittent, increasing at the end of the day, or after sitting or standing for hours at a time.
Varicose Vein Treatment
If you’re experiencing pain along with bulging varicose veins:
- Elevate your legs to reduce the pooling of blood and help with circulation. Sit with your legs above your heart if possible.
- Stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Take breaks during the work day to either sit after being on your feet, or stand and stretch after sitting for several hours.
- Focus your exercise routine on circulation and strengthening your calf muscles. Some options include cycling, running and walking.
- Limit the amount of salt in your diet.
- Lose any excess weight.
- Wear compression stockings during the day to support your blood vessels, improve circulation and reduce swelling.
If these strategies do not work, your doctor may recommend a varicose vein removal procedure such as:
- Varithena®, a gentle foam treatment delivered to the affected veins.
- Radiofrequency, in which heat is delivered through a disposable catheter to destroy the vein wall.
- Endovenous laser ablation, in which laser energy is delivered to the vein wall to close the damaged vein.
- Ambulatory phlebectomy, a procedure where smaller affected veins are removed with a tiny needle.
Are you looking for a solution to manage your varicose veins symptoms? Contact the Vein Centers of Connecticut to discuss available treatment options.