Neck and back pain can severely hinder the way we live our daily lives. It can be hard to enjoy your day when something as simple as sitting in the wrong chair can cause you…
Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins found in your legs. Any superficial vein may become varicose. Many people think that these veins are only a cosmetic concern, but they could cause significant pain and discomfort if left untreated. Knowing the symptoms of varicose veins are vital so your condition doesn’t worsen. Treatment can involve at-home remedies or procedures by a doctor.
If you’re experiencing pain from varicose veins, know that there are options to put your discomfort in the past.
Varicose Vein Symptoms
Varicose veins may not cause you any pain, but you may have them if you have dark purple- or blue-colored veins or veins that appear twisted or are bulging. When painful symptoms occur, they may include:
- A heavy feeling in your legs
- Burning, throbbing, or swelling in your lower legs
- Pain after sitting or standing for long periods
- Severe itching around a vein
- Skin discoloration
These symptoms tend to worsen during warm days. Blood vessels dilate with higher temperatures, making it harder for valves to function correctly. Symptoms can also worsen as the day progresses and more blood pools around your ankles.
Who Gets Varicose Veins?
More than 20% of all adults are affected by varicose veins in the United States. There are a few increased risk factors, though.
- Age: The risk of getting varicose veins increases with age. As we become older, general wear and tear on the valves of our veins increases, which causes blood flow to be blocked.
- Sex: Women are more likely to develop this condition, although anyone can develop varicose veins. Hormonal changes throughout pregnancy may be a factor as pregnancy hormones tend to relax vein walls.
- Obesity: Being overweight often adds extra pressure on your veins, causing blood to become backed up.
Like any condition, there is a group that is most at risk for developing varicose veins. However, anyone, regardless of their age, sex, or health, can develop the condition.
How to Get Relief from Varicose Veins
There are several at-home remedies you could try to reduce pain from your varicose veins. However, if your problem is severe or continues after you try different home treatments, you should consider consulting a vein specialist.
Elevate Your Legs
For immediate relief, try elevating your legs above your heart. You can place your feet on a table, stretch them on a wall, or lie down in bed and rest your legs on a few pillows. This will allow blood to move easier from your lower body to your heart. You should keep legs elevated for at least 15 minutes for this treatment to be effective.
Exercise
Regular exercise will allow for better blood circulation in the legs, which helps to push along the blood collected in the veins. Exercise also helps lower blood pressure, which is another contributing factor to varicose veins forming. Low-impact exercises are best, like swimming, walking, or yoga.
Compression Stockings
Compression stockings are available at most pharmacies and retailers and can aid in applying pressure to the legs. Compression stockings assist the muscles and veins in moving blood toward the heart.
Use Cold Water
If your legs are in pain at the end of the day, consider taking a cold shower. Cool temperatures cause blood vessels to shrink, which should alleviate swelling in the legs. Avoid hot temperatures when showering, as heat has a negative effect on veins.
How to Prevent Varicose Vein Pain
As with other chronic conditions, preventing pain from varicose veins is critical. Compression socks or stockings throughout the day can help tremendously, but tight clothes and shoes won’t make your varicose veins feel any better. They put too much pressure on different areas of your body and constrict blood flow.
Consult the Specialists at Orthopedic and Laser Spine Surgery
Consider visiting the expert medical team at Orthopedic and Laser Spine Surgery if you suffer from varicose vein pain. Our award-winning, board-certified doctors will start by looking at your medical history, performing a physical exam, and evaluate your movements. After assessing your condition, our team will explore all medical options beginning with conservative treatment methods. If our doctors do recommend surgery, our team will use advanced, minimally invasive techniques that eliminate pain and discomfort.
You should be comfortable in your skin and shouldn’t have to suffer. Call us today at (855) 853-6542 or complete our online contact form today.