Why Varicose Veins Are Painful and What You Can Do About Them

Varicose veins can be painful and may also affect your self-confidence.

Approximately 41 percent of women over the age of 50 have varicose veins, so it’s a common issue for many people.

If you’re dealing with the effects of varicose vein pain, read on to learn more about it and what you can do to ease your symptoms.

Do Varicose Veins Hurt?

There are several factors that may cause varicose veins to develop. These include your age, weight, gender, and genetics. The pain usually occurs when the veins start to bulge or become twisted in the legs or ankle area.

Not everyone will deal with varicose vein pain. In fact, many people don’t feel any type of pain whatsoever.

On the other hand, some people do suffer from pain and discomfort associated with varicose veins. Some of the most common issues include an achy or heavy feeling in the legs.

Other people may experience unusual burning, throbbing, or muscle cramping. Swelling in the lower legs is also a common symptom in patients with varicose veins.

You might also notice localized itching near the veins as well as skin discoloration. If you feel worsened pain whenever you sit or stand for long periods of time, it’s a good idea to seek treatment.

There can be some serious complications in those with varicose veins, but they’re rare. Some of these complications include skin ulcers, blood clots, or bleeding if the veins are close to the skin.

Treatment for Varicose Vein Pain

If you’re wondering how to get rid of varicose veins, there really is no way to eliminate them completely. But taking preventative measures can lessen the pain associated with them.

In most cases, you’ll need to consult with a vascular surgeon if your pain is severe. However, proper exercise and watching your weight can also improve unpleasant pain and swelling. Avoid wearing tight, restrictive clothing to maintain good blood flow.

A procedure called sclerotherapy may help reduce varicose vein pain. It’s commonly referred to as injection therapy. The procedure involves injecting a solution into the veins that causes the vein walls to stick together until they fade away.

Laser therapy is another option that is minimally invasive. The provider will insert a catheter into the vein and use a laser to close off the damaged vein.

For more intense varicose veins treatment, surgery is recommended. The surgeon will tie off the affected vein to stop the blood from pooling. They may also strip the vein to prevent more from appearing in the future.

Get Relief from Vein Pain

If you’re dealing with varicose vein pain, you don’t have to suffer. Consult with your doctor or talk to a dermatologist about your options so you can find relief.

For more information about our services, including leg vein treatments and more, contact us today to find out how we can serve you.