Symptoms of Vein Disease

Swollen Legs or Ankles

One of the prominent symptoms of vein disease is leg swelling, also known as edema. This occurs due to the impaired circulation caused by dysfunctional valves within the veins. When the valves fail to efficiently return blood to the heart, blood can accumulate and pool in the lower extremities, resulting in swelling.

Leg swelling associated with vein disease is often more noticeable at the end of the day, after prolonged periods of standing or sitting. It typically affects the ankles and calves but can extend to the entire leg in severe cases.

Achy or Heavy Legs

Another common symptom of vein disease is the sensation of achy or heavy legs. This discomfort typically arises as a result of impaired blood flow and increased pressure within the affected veins. The feeling of achiness or heaviness is often more pronounced after prolonged periods of standing or sitting, as well as towards the end of the day.

Individuals with vein disease may describe their legs as feeling tired, sore or fatigued. The sensation can be accompanied by a dull, persistent ache that may worsen with activity or when the legs are elevated for extended periods.

Leg Restlessness or Cramps

Leg restlessness or cramps can be additional symptoms of vein disease. These sensations often manifest as an uncontrollable urge to move your legs, especially when you’re at rest or trying to sleep. This condition is commonly referred to as restless legs syndrome (RLS) and can be associated with venous insufficiency.

Individuals with vein disease may experience discomfort in the form of tingling, itching or a crawling sensation in their legs. This can lead to an overwhelming need to constantly move the legs for relief. Leg restlessness can disrupt sleep patterns, causing sleep deprivation and daytime fatigue.

In addition to restlessness, individuals with vein disease may also experience leg cramps. Cramps are typically described as sudden, intense muscle contractions that cause pain and can last for several seconds to a few minutes. Cramps commonly occur at night and may be triggered by prolonged periods of inactivity or excessive fluid retention.

Skin Changes

Skin changes may be symptoms of vein disease. As venous insufficiency progresses, impaired circulation and increased pressure in the veins lead to various changes in the skin of the affected areas. Changes may include:

Discoloration: The skin around the affected veins becomes discolored, appearing reddish or brownish. This discoloration is known as hyperpigmentation and is caused by the pooling of blood in the veins.

Ulcers: In severe cases of vein disease, chronic venous ulcers develop. These are open sores that typically form around the ankles or lower legs. Venous ulcers can be painful, slow to heal and prone to infection.

Dryness and Itching: The skin in the affected area becomes dry and itchy due to poor circulation and inflammation. Scratching can further damage the skin barrier and increase the risk of infection.

Skin Thinning: Over time, the skin in the affected area becomes thin and fragile. This makes it more susceptible to injuries and can result in slow wound healing.

Leg Pain

Leg pain is a significant symptom commonly experienced by individuals with vein disease. The pain varies in intensity and presents in different forms, depending on the specific condition causing the vein disease.

In some cases, vein disease leads to more severe leg pain, such as sharp or shooting pain. This type of pain could indicate complications such as blood clots or inflammation of the veins (phlebitis). It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden, severe leg pain.