Varicose veins symptoms: Don't let this common condition get under your skin

Causes of vericose veins: Factors that increase the risk of developing varicose veins include age, pregnancy, being overweight, prolonged sitting or standing, an inactive lifestyle, and family history (Image: Canva)

If you notice that your veins are bulging and have a bluish tint, your legs feel heavy and achy, and at night, cramps keep you awake in the night, you could be suffering from varicose veins, a common condition that can mostly be managed with some lifestyle changes.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, you experience symptoms of varicose veins when your veins become weak or damaged. Veins in your legs carry blood up toward your heart with the help of one-way valves that prevent blood from flowing backward. When these valves or the vein walls are damaged, blood pools and can flow backward, causing the veins to enlarge and become varicose.

Factors that increase the risk of developing varicose veins include age, pregnancy, being overweight, prolonged sitting or standing, an inactive lifestyle, and family history.

The most noticeable symptom of varicose veins is swollen, bluish veins just beneath the skin. Other symptoms include itching or burning around the veins, skin discoloration near the affected area, aching and swelling in the legs (especially after prolonged standing or sitting), a feeling of heaviness in the legs and feet, and nighttime leg cramps that can disrupt sleep.

Here are some lifestyle changes that may help:

Watch your weight: Maintain a healthy weight. It can improve blood flow and ease the pressure on your veins. Aim for a balanced diet and regular exercise to help you manage your weight effectively.

Stay active: Staying physically active helps blood move through your veins. Walking and light exercise can prevent blood from pooling in your legs. It also reduces the risk of varicose veins. However, avoid strenuous exercise that involves heavy lifting, as it might worsen the condition.

Move more: Avoid standing or sitting for long periods. When sitting, elevate your feet to help lower the pressure inside your veins. Lying down with your feet above the level of your heart for a few minutes several times a day can also help.

Footwear: Choose footwear that support. Avoid high heels or shoes that limit ankle movement. Proper footwear can aid in maintaining healthy blood flow in your legs.

Quit smoking: Quitting smoking is important.  Smoking can damage your veins and make you more susceptible to varicose veins.

Medical help: Apart from lifestyle changes, medical treatments are also available for varicose veins. Compression therapy, pain management, and other procedures may be recommended based on the severity of your symptoms. If you experience symptoms of varicose veins, consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

If your symptoms worsen when sitting or standing for long periods, but improve when you lie down or lift your feet, it's time to see a doctor. Immediate medical attention is necessary if your varicose veins suddenly get worse, you notice bleeding, or you develop a sore.