The symptoms of vein disorders may differ depending on the condition you have developed. One of the most common symptoms is having visible veins on the ankles, legs, or other areas. Sometimes, symptoms may be more subtle than seeing a discolored, squiggly vein or a twisted, protruding vein.
If you have varicose veins, you may experience symptoms such as:
Swelling in the leg or ankle
Discomfort or discoloration in the skin over the varicose vein
A sense of heaviness in the leg or legs
Muscle aches or cramping in the affected leg
Itching around the vein
A burning sensation near the vein
Symptoms may worsen as the day goes on due to the pressure within the dysfunctional veins. Varicose veins are the most common symptom of a broader condition called chronic venous insufficiency. Other symptoms of this condition include spider veins, leathery or shiny skin, flaking skin, and tiny blood vessels that burst. The skin near the ankles may look reddish-brown. If CVI is not treated, there is a risk of developing ulcers.
If you currently have varicose veins, you also have a significantly higher risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. It is important to be familiar with the signs and symptoms of this condition because DVT can be very serious if not handled properly. Deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot in a deep vein. If the clot dislodges, it can travel to the lungs or heart, where it can have catastrophic effects. According to research, only about half of the people who develop a DVT also have symptoms. These may include a sense of pressure in the legs, pain, swelling, redness, tenderness, and skin warmth.