Why Do Varicose Veins Hurt?

If you suffer from varicose veins, then you are probably all too familiar with the discomfort that they can cause. Your legs might feel achy and sore; the skin near your varicose veins might itch, or your legs might feel heavier than normal. These are all common side effects of varicose veins and you are not along in experiencing them. But what is going on under the surface to cause these uncomfortable issues?

Vein Specialist Dr. Eston Wenger of Premier Surgical in Cleveland wants to help you understand what causes varicose veins. Veins are blood vessels that return blood back up to your heart. When your veins and valves are healthy, and working properly, your blood returns to your heart with no problem. But, over time, these valves may weaken. This may be due to age, genetics, occupation (standing for long periods), pregnancy, or any other number of factors. If your vein valves weaken, then the blood that should be moving back up, against gravity, to your heart will start to backflow. This blood can pool in your veins creating extra pressure that causes your veins to swell and bulge.

Aches and Pains: If your valves aren’t functioning properly your veins may become swollen or stretched. Your veins will have to work harder than normal to keep blood pumping back up to your heart. Any of these issues could be cause for achiness.

Heaviness: If you have varicose veins, your legs might feel as if they are difficult to move or like they have weights attached to them. But why? The excess blood pooling in your legs will add weight to them making them feel heavier. Swelling in your legs can also contribute to this feeling of heaviness.

Itchiness: That itchiness you feel around your varicose veins has a name: venous stasis dermatitis. This condition is caused when not enough blood and oxygen reaches your skin. In short, your veins aren’t doing their job and it is affecting your skin.

Varicose veins aren’t just a nuisance. If your damaged veins are left untreated, they could lead to even more serious issues like skin ulcers..
If you are experiencing any of these issues associated with varicose veins, you don’t have to continue to suffer! You can, and should, get help. Vein Specialist Dr. Eston Wenger can set up a plan, specially designed for you and your particular needs.

Take the first step today and contact Dr. Eston Wenger to set up an appointment. Give Dr. Wenger, a call at Premier Surgical Associates of Cleveland, TN, at (423) 472-5423 or click here to request an appointment online.