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When to Be Concerned With Varicose Vein Pain?

Varicose veins are swollen superficial veins that have lost their ability to properly direct blood flow. They most frequently occur in the legs and feet, where blood pressure in the veins is highest. In some individuals, varicose veins worsen over time, with symptoms including pain and itching. Although there are several self-care options available to treat these symptoms, in some cases additional medical care may be needed.

  1. Initial Self-Care Options

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, your painful varicose veins may be accompanied by additional symptoms that include heavy or aching legs, as well as muscle cramps and burning, swelling or throbbing below your knees. In many cases, you will be able to relieve these symptoms through lifestyle modifications that include regular exercise, avoidance of prolonged amounts of sitting or standing, weight loss and a diet low in sodium and high in fiber. You may also gain relief by elevating your legs to the level of your heart for a few minutes several times a day, as well as by avoiding high-heeled shoes and clothing that restricts your groin, waist or legs.

    Signs of Deeper Problems

    • If these self-care techniques do not relieve your symptoms, you may have cause for concern. Increased blood pressure in your legs can trigger a fluid buildup in surrounding tissues. Over time, this buildup may lead to the development of painful ulcers near your varicose veins. In some cases, varicose veins may also trigger swelling in the deeper veins of your legs, leading to sudden leg swelling that may indicate the presence of a developing blood clot. If you develop ulcers related to your varicose veins, your first sign may be a brown spot on your skin at the site of the ulcer. See your doctor as soon as possible if this occurs. You should also see your doctor immediately if your leg swells rapidly. You may also wish to see your doctor for painful varicose veins if there are no signs of deeper problems and self-care methods have not eased your symptoms.

    Medical Treatments

    • Your doctor may begin treating your varicose veins with special compression socks that constrict your veins and encourage blood to flow properly. If you are developing ulcers, these corrective actions may be enough to heal your sores and prevent their return. Depending on your circumstances, you may need to wear compression socks permanently as part of your daily routine.

      If compression socks do not relieve your symptoms, your doctor may choose from several other treatment options. Sclerotherapy uses a chemical injection to scar your varicose veins and cut off their blood supply. Ablation uses tiny electrodes inserted into your veins to heat and destroy them. Laser treatment uses lasers to achieve the same goal. Vein stripping involves surgical removal of your painful varicose veins. Consult your doctor or surgeon to learn more about these techniques.

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