Can Varicose Veins Cause Leg Pain?

Blog Post
By BASS Vein Center
Can Varicose Veins Cause Leg Pain?
October 19, 2023

Many people assume that varicose veins are merely a cosmetic annoyance. Although many patients seek treatment to diminish the appearance of varicose veins, some even seek pain treatment, too. Can varicose veins cause leg pain? The answer is complex, as well as the condition. Even though varicose veins are common, people shouldn’t have to live with the discomfort they come with. Here’s what patients need to know about varicose veins and leg pain.

Varicose Veins, Spider Veins, and More

Varicose veins, spider veins, or other forms of chronic venous disease can all come with leg pain. Known for their distinct appearance, a common assumption is that varicose vein treatment is merely a cosmetic procedure. What many don’t realize, is that varicose veins often come with several other health-related issues as well. 

Many patients with varicose veins also report feelings of leg cramping, swelling, heaviness, and restless leg syndrome. People often don’t assume that their leg pain results from varicose veins or other vein diseases. However, many symptoms associated with varicose veins are as follows:

These symptoms often get conflated with normal signs of aging. Patients avoid treating their varicose veins out of trepidation or fear. Many don’t realize that vein treatment may be covered under insurance, especially if varicose veins are causing other painful symptoms. Although every case is unique, varicose veins can result in several unwanted symptoms and issues.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

What exactly causes varicose veins? The veins in our legs serve the vital function of circulating the blood back to the heart. In each leg, there is a one-way valve that keeps the blood flowing upward. If these veins weaken or stop functioning properly, the blood starts to flow downwards. This causes the blood to pool, which results in dark blue, purple-ish varicose veins. 

Many factors contribute to the appearance of varicose veins. Aging, lack of movement, weight gain, and even pregnancy can cause varicose veins. When a valve failure occurs below the knee, varicose veins can start appearing on the calves or anywhere on the leg. Symptoms may not be noticeable at first, but over time, they can worsen and cause serious discomfort. 

Preventive Measures

Preventive measures can be taken to avoid varicose veins. However, in some cases, they are simply unavoidable and out of our control. To diminish the severity of symptoms or prevent varicose veins from forming, patients can do any of the following:

  • Avoid sitting or standing for prolonged periods
  • Exercise regularly and incorporate daily movement
  • Go on frequent walks
  • Wear shoes that fit properly
  • Put your feet up and elevate your legs regularly
  • Invest in compression socks, pantyhose, or bodysuits
  • Lose weight if necessary

Treatment Options

Luckily, there are several treatment options for painful varicose veins. Those living with the pain or discomfort associated with varicose veins don’t have to needlessly suffer. Patients can look into several treatment plans and also discuss options with their doctors. Treatment options include:

Consult with your doctor to learn about the best treatment plan available for your leg pain.

Heal Varicose Vein Pain at BASS Vein Center

No one should have to suffer endlessly from leg discomfort. Varicose veins can be remedied with the right care. The team of experts at BASS Vein Center is here to help. Offering five different vascular procedures and vein treatments, our doctors will determine the best possible treatment plan for you. To learn more, or to inquire about scheduling an appointment, please contact us at (925) 281-5912.

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