Symptoms of Vein Disease: Leg Swelling
Varicose veins are a leading cause of leg swelling, otherwise known as edema. Swelling can be concentrated around the ankles or spread upward, often accompanied by discomfort, pain, heaviness or a sense of pressure.
If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to speak with a doctor as soon as possible. Without proper care, complications like skin ulcers may develop and underlying health conditions could negatively impact your quality of life.
The Relationship Between Varicose Veins and Edema
Your veins work continuously to return deoxygenated blood to your heart. In the legs, they must push against gravity, relying on small internal valves and muscle contractions to move blood upward. When the veins become stretched or dilated, these valves no longer come together, resulting in venous insufficiency.
If left untreated, fluid buildup continues and may leak into surrounding tissues, causing edema. Since varicose veins primarily affect the lower legs, swelling often starts in this area.
Symptoms and Complications of Edema
Swelling in the ankles can cause noticeable changes, such as tighter shoes or one leg appearing larger than the other. Additional symptoms may include:
- Heaviness, aching or fatigue in your legs
- A sock imprint or ring around your ankles
- Skin changes, including red or brown patches or a shiny appearance
- Open sores
- A visible indent when pressing on swollen skin
- Pain after prolonged sitting or standing
- A feeling of pressure in your legs
- Muscle cramps
- Difficulty walking or breathing
Ignoring edema can lead to serious complications, including:
- Chronic inflammation
- Damage to the lymphatic system
- Reduced movement and challenges with everyday activities
- Skin ulcerations
Causes of Edema
Varicose veins do not directly cause edema, but they can contribute to fluid buildup when venous insufficiency or other underlying conditions go untreated.
Edema may also result from:
- Premenstrual symptoms
- Side effects of blood pressure or pain management medications
- Kidney disease
- Hypertension
- Congestive heart failure
- High sodium intake
- Prolonged sitting or standing
- Osteoarthritis
- Obesity
- Damaged veins
- Thyroid disease
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Allergic reactions
- Pregnancy
- Blood clots
- Lymphedema
- Heat and fluid retention
Treatment for Edema
The first step in treating edema is identifying the underlying cause. A doctor may evaluate your circulation, cardiovascular health and lifestyle to determine the best course of action.
In the meantime, certain lifestyle changes may help reduce swelling, including:
- Wearing compression garments to support circulation
- Taking breaks from prolonged sitting or standing
- Applying a cool compress on warm days to reduce fluid retention
- Staying hydrated and limiting caffeine and alcohol intake
- Elevating the legs to assist blood flow
- Massaging the legs to encourage circulation
- Reducing sodium intake
If your swelling is due to venous insufficiency, your doctor may recommend one of the following non-invasive procedures:
- Endovenous Laser Ablation: Uses laser or radio-frequency technology with a catheter to close the affected vein.
- Sclerotherapy: Involves a foam-like substance injected into the vein to seal it.
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy: Removes the affected vein through a tiny incision.
Concerned about varicose veins and swelling? To explore available treatment options, contact us today.