Causes, symptoms and ways to treat varicose veins: Keep your legs elevated while sleeping for relief

Symptoms of varicose veins: One of the most common complaints of people with varicose veins is aching in the lower limbs. Swelling in the legs, and development of tortuous veins may be noticed (Image: Canva)

Varicose veins are dilated and tortuous superficial veins that are most commonly seen in the lower limbs. They are a result of incompetence of the valves present in the veins, which allows blood to pool into them. They can cause significant discomfort to the person, and lead to swelling as well. Complications may be seen in long-term cases that have not received timely treatment.

Causes of varicose veins

There are several risk factors that cause varicose veins. These include professions that involve long standing hours, like surgeons. Home makers are also susceptible if they stand while cooking for long periods. Advancing age, pregnancy, and a family history of varicose veins can also increase the risk of this condition.

Also read | 10 things you need to know about varicose, or bulging, veins

One of the most common complaints of people with varicose veins is aching in the lower limbs. Swelling in the legs, and development of tortuous veins may be noticed. Such symptoms worsen during the day or after standing for long periods. The swelling may reduce on elevating the lower limbs at night. Fatigue and a dragging sensation is also a common finding.

The bluish and tortuous veins become more prominent when the person stands, and reduce in prominence on elevation of legs. Telangiectasia, the presence of small and widened blood vessels near the surface of the skin, appearing as purplish lines, is also observed. Long-term cases may lead to skin pigmentation and eczema. The skin appears darker, dry, and flaky.

Health risks of varicose veins

If left untreated, complications of varicose veins can occur, like superficial thrombophlebitis and bleeding from the ruptured veins. Non-healing ulcers near the ankle may appear as well.

Also read | Varicose veins causes, symptoms, precautions: Leg exercises can prevent formation of dilated veins

Minimally invasive therapies like sclerotherapy may be advised, and in some cases, surgeries may be necessary. The  Trendelenberg procedure is a common surgery for varicose veins.

Lifestyle modifications are necessary to help deal with the symptoms. Reducing weight and exercising dailycan aid in preventing this condition.

Keeping the leg elevated has been found to improve venous return, which helps reduce the swelling. While sleeping, a few pillows can be kept under the legs to raise them. Using compression stocking while working is also helpful, and ankle and calf exercises may be advised.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.