COVID-19 UPDATESFIND A DOCTORPAY MY BILL GIVE TOPICS PATIENT STORIES NEWS ABOUT Dermatology Varicose Vein Pain: Why Do My Legs Hurt? Varicose Vein Pain: Why Do My Legs Hurt? Do your legs frequently feel achy, heavy, restless, or painful? If so, you may have varicose veins. Nov. 22, 2021 • 3 min read Varicose veins are a common condition that often goes undetected and untreated because people don't know how to recognize it. As a result, millions walk around with chronic varicose vein pain and never understand the underlying cause of their discomfort. What are varicose veins? Varicose veins occur when the veins become enlarged and overfilled with blood –most frequently in the legs and feet. The condition affects approximately 25 percent of all adults and is especially common among women. Symptoms may include: Achiness Pain Heaviness Swelling Symptoms generally occur around the affected veins. In severe cases, ulcers can form or the veins can swell, become discolored, or bleed excessively. Contrary to popular belief, varicose veins don't always bulge out, so it's important to be able to recognize them by the other symptoms they cause. While many people mistakenly think varicose veins are only a cosmetic issue, they are actually very serious and can get progressively worse if treatment is not received. What causes the condition? Blood only travels in one direction in your veins, thanks to valves that prevent backward flow. However, the valves in your veins can weaken and become less effective, allowing blood to pool in the legs. As a result of weakened valves, blood begins to leak or flow the wrong way and accumulate in the veins, causing them to become swollen, enlarged, and painful. Here are some of the potential risk factors for varicose veins: Standing for prolonged periods of time Menopause Obesity Family history of varicose veins Being over the age of 50 While some of these risk factors can't be avoided (i.e., family history or age), others can (i.e., obesity). If you are concerned about varicose veins or have already started to experience minor symptoms, it is wise to make lifestyle changes and eliminate the risk factors you can control. Treatment options There are a few ways in which people try to minimize painful symptoms: Compression stockings Losing weight Exercising regularly Avoiding sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time Elevating the legs However, the above are just temporary measures to reduce symptoms. If these remedies don't work or if your condition worsens, you should see a vein doctor right away to learn about minimally invasive options to cure these symptoms. Keep in mind that most insurance companies cover varicose vein treatments because the condition is serious and can cause significant pain. Seek treatment and say goodbye to your varicose vein pain. NEXT STEPS Get Real Results Rochester Regional Health Vein Treatment Center is the premiere practice treating venous disease in Western New York. Our providers always work diligently to ensure you look and feel your best. Your legs will thank you. Free Vein Screening Share Recent Articles Primary Care Flu Season 2021-2022 This page reflects the most up-to-date data about the 2021-2022 flu season. Previous flu season data is also available for comparison. COVID-19 Updates: COVID-19 in Our Region Find the latest numbers on COVID-19 cases in the Finger Lakes and Greater Rochester, as well as any local and state health guidelines. Bone and Joint What is Spinal Stenosis? Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows and often causes back or nerve-related pain. Learn the symptoms and treatment from an orthopaedic spine surgeon. Dermatology Who Should I See First? Primary Care vs. Vein Specialist There are some conditions that warrant seeing one doctor vs. another doctor. So how do you know which one to choose? Get Email Updates Sign up for our Health Hive newsletter to receive our top stories and tips to help you live a longer, healthier life. Submit Enhancing Lives. Preserving Health. Contact Us Your Care Closings & Cancellationss Find a Doctor Find a Location Billing & Insurance Classes & Events Health Hive - News Hub Our Services Closings & Cancellations Company Careers About Us ACM Global Laboratories Contact Us Diversity and Inclusion ElderONE Volunteer GRIPA Media and Public Relations Quality and Safety Sustainability Resources Workday Employees Healthcare Professionals Make a Gift Medical Education & Research MyCare Sponsorships © 2021 Rochester Regional Health. All Rights Reserved. Non Discrimination Disclaimer Language Assistance Privacy Policy Feedback