Varicose Veins: What Are the Signs and Symptoms?
An Overview of Varicose Veins
Veins are the blood vessels that carry blood from the body back to the heart and thus are an important part of the human body. They are thinner than arteries and have one-way valves that prevent the blood from flowing backwards. The deoxygenated blood from the body is transported through the veins to the heart, where it is then pumped to the lungs to be oxygenated. Veins are an important part of the circulatory system, and without them, the blood would not be able to return to the heart. But damaged valves can lead to various problems one being varicose veins.
Varicose veins are swollen and twisted veins that usually occur in the legs. They are caused by valves in the veins that are not working properly. This allows blood to flow backwards and pool in the veins. Varicose veins can be painful and can cause other problems, such as skin ulcers.
Spider veins are small, thin veins that can be seen just under the surface of the skin. They are usually red, blue, or purple in color and are most commonly found on the legs and feet. While they are not typically painful, they can be a cosmetic concern for many people. Spider veins are caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, pregnancy, and weight gain. They can also be the result of sitting or standing for lengthy periods of time.
Who Is More Likely to Get Varicose Veins: The Risk Factors
Varicose veins are a common condition that affects a large demographic of people. Read on to know the different risk factors associated with varicose veins. We will also look at things that make one susceptible to developing this condition.
Age Factors
Age is a risk factor associated with varicose veins. As we age, our skin loses its elasticity and becomes thinner. This makes it more difficult for our veins to function properly and can lead to the formation of varicose veins.
Genetic Susceptibility
The risk of developing varicose veins is higher if you have a family history of the condition. It’s also more likely if your mother or father had it and passed it on to you.
Gender
Varicose veins are most common in women, accounting for 90% of cases worldwide. However, men can get them as well.
Lifestyle
A sedentary lifestyle and prolonged periods of sitting may be linked to varicose veins, as is obesity and high blood pressure, which can increase the risk of varicose veins.
Pregnancy
Women who are pregnant are at an elevated risk of developing varicose veins in pregnancy, and during breastfeeding after delivery. The condition typically improves after pregnancy, but it is rare.
Obesity
Varicose veins are more common in people who are overweight. This risk further increases for individuals with diabetes and high blood pressure (hypertension). People who are overweight or obese tend to develop these types of veins more often than those with optimal body weight.
Leg Injuries
Another possible cause for this condition is the fact that the body may react to an injury or illness by producing more fluids in certain parts of the body, causing inflammation and fluid retention, leading to problems with blood flow.
Signs and Symptoms That You Are Suffering from Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are an indication of untreated venous insufficiency, which is the failure of the valves that prevent blood flow backwards. It is a condition in which the valves of the veins failing to keep the flow of blood unidirectional, thus leading to an accumulation of blood in the veins of the leg. If not treated properly, it can lead to severe complications.
So, understanding the symptoms is a necessary step towards taking care of the varicose veins. The symptoms include:
‘Heavy’ feeling in the legs
Symptoms of varicose veins include an achy, heavy feeling in your legs. The pain may start with aching or burning sensations, which can intensify as the condition progresses. This can make you feel tired and unwell and make it difficult to sleep. You may also experience nausea, dizziness, and breathlessness due to the poor circulation of blood.
Swelling and Cramps
Varicose veins often cause swelling of the legs. This is known as varicose eversion and is caused by fluid pooling around the veins. This can make them appear larger than they actually are. Varicose eversion can be painful, particularly if you have suffered from it for some time without treatment. This swelling can increase during hot weather and when you stand for prolonged periods of time or exercise regularly.
Regular Itching or Burning Sensation
Varicose veins can also cause itching or burning sensations in your legs that may become more intense over time as your condition progresses. This area of your skin may also become red and inflamed (erythema). You may find that scratching the area makes things worse rather than better!
Discolored Bulging Veins
Discolored bulging veins are a symptom of varicose veins. These veins are usually found in the legs and can be painful. They can also lead to other problems such as blood clots.
Early Signs of Developing Varicose Veins
Varicose veins can be very painful to deal with, so if you're experiencing these early-phase symptoms, learn how to get rid of them and how to move forward. If you have any of these symptoms, it's important to see your doctor to rule out other potential causes. Early diagnosis and treatment of varicose veins can help to prevent more serious complications down the road.
Are you having a dwelling sort of pain in your legs? This is often one of the first signs that something is wrong. You may feel a constant ache or heaviness in your legs, especially after standing or sitting for extended periods of time.
Another early sign is swelling in the lower part of the legs. This is caused by the pooling of blood in your veins. You may notice that your ankles and feet are particularly swollen after a long day on your feet.
You may even experience cramps in your legs, especially at night, giving you chills. This is due to the pooling of blood in your veins and the resulting pressure on your nerves.
Another warning sign is the itching which is caused by the inflammation of the veins. It can be worse at night and may be relieved by scratching.
The inflammation of the veins can also cause the skin around them to take on a reddish or bluish hue. You may also notice that the skin is thicker and more wrinkled in the affected area.
Final Words
If you are experiencing some or all of these signs and symptoms, don’t hesitate to speak to a specialist. Although varicose veins are not curable, early detection and treatment will help avoid any sort of complications that may come with progression of the disease. With proper care, therapies and medication, treating varicose veins is an easy task.
So, if you are looking to put an end to the condition and have your fit and healthy life back, contact Georgia Vascular Institute right away. We can help you beat varicose veins and claim your health back.