Varicose veins and spider veins are twisted, enlarged veins that cause aching pain and discomfort. Treatment may involve self-care measures or procedures by your doctor to close or remove the veins or close or close the venous thrombosis in your legs or feet.
Symptoms and signs of varicose veins
Veins that are dark purple or blue in color
- Twisted and bulging
- Burning, throbbing, muscle cramping and swelling in your lower legs
- Worsened pain after sitting or standing for a long time
- Itching around one or more of your veins
Risk factors
Age – the risk of varicose veins increases with age
- Sex – women are more likely to develop the condition
- Pregnancy – during pregnancy, the volume of blood in your body increases, which can cause enlarged veins in your legs
- Obesity – being overweight puts added pressure on your veins
Complications
Ulcers. Painful ulcers may form on the skin near varicose veins, particularly near the ankles. See your doctor immediately if you suspect you’ve developed an ulcer.
- Blood clots. Occasionally, veins deep within the legs become enlarged. This may indicate a blood clot, a condition known medically as thrombophlebitis.
When to see a doctor
If you’re concerned about how your veins look and feel and self-care measures haven’t stopped your condition from getting worse, see your doctor.
- Exercise, elevating your legs, or wearing compression stockings can help you ease the pain of varicose veins.
Prevention
Improving circulation and muscle tone may reduce your risk of developing varicose veins or getting additional ones.
Causes
Weak or damaged valves can lead to varicose veins
- Tiny valves in your veins open as blood flows toward your heart then close to stop blood from flowing backward
- If these valves are weak or damaged, blood can flow backward and pool in the vein, causing the veins to stretch or twist
