Symptoms of varicose veins

Varicose veins are seen in both men and women of all races and cultures. Overall, it appears that women are more affected by varicose veins than men. What has to be understood is that just because one has varicose veins, does not always mean that one will have symptoms. There is no correlation between having varicose veins and symptoms. Some women have very mild varicose veins and they whine and cry about leg swelling and pain. Other women have “rope-like” varicose veins and yet they only complain about the poor cosmetic appearance

In general, as the varicose veins progress, symptoms will appear.

The most common symptoms of varicose veins are:

Pain: The majority of individuals with varicose veins will complain of an odd ache in the lower legs. The ache is generally worse towards the end of day; usually after having been on the feet all day. Individuals who do tend to stand on their feet all day usually have moderate pain. Pain may start in the foot and one may even feel a throbbing sensation along the calf and lower leg. Still other individuals will feel crampy pain during the night. In almost all cases, pain eases off when one is sitting or lying down. Elevating the legs provides instant relief in many individuals

Itching: Many individuals with varicose veins complain of dryness and constant itching on the lower legs. The itching and dry skin is related to blood pooling in superficial veins in the leg. Often the itching is worse after a shower or in hot weather. The itching does get better when legs are elevated. One way to reduce itching is to apply a skin moisturizer on a regular basis.