Over time, many people experience varicose veins and other unwanted physical conditions. Though varicose veins typically do not pose a severe risk to your general health, the symptoms can be worrisome. One frequent question among the patients at our medical clinic is whether varicose veins can cause leg cramps.
Though symptoms vary between individuals, more severe cases of varicose veins can result in leg cramps. If you suffer from this condition, it may be time to consider non-surgical and surgical options for long-term treatment and symptom management. Reach out to our board-certified professionals today to schedule an assessment and learn more about possible courses of treatment for your condition.
The main cause of varicose veins is deteriorating vein health, which can result in faulty vein valves and abnormal blood flow. When the valves within veins fail to function correctly, the blood flows backward and builds up. Once enough blood has pooled within a vein, it becomes engorged and visibly twisted beneath the skin, usually appearing as large blue, purple, or red lines.
Because the legs are farther from the heart, the veins must work against gravity to return blood to the heart, making this area more susceptible to the formation of varicose veins. After a varicose vein forms, the excess buildup of blood within the vein causes it to stretch and become weaker, often worsening the condition. Although varicose veins are mainly a cosmetic concern in the beginning stages, the symptoms could adversely impact your health and physical abilities if the condition progresses.
In the early stages of varicose vein development in the lower legs, patients typically do not experience substantial side effects beyond more visible veins. Some individuals may develop a darkening skin tone around the affected veins due to the excess amount of red blood cells.
However, as the condition progresses, varicose veins could cause uncomfortable and even painful symptoms, including muscle cramps and swelling in the lower legs. Since the collection of blood in varicose veins cannot return to the heart, the blood becomes deoxygenated and carries more toxins. The increased toxins and decreased oxygen within varicose veins often cause swelling and painful leg cramps.
More severe cases of varicose veins may result in noticeable itching, throbbing, and burning around affected veins, as well as a feeling of heaviness or aching in the legs. These symptoms can negatively impact a person’s daily life and necessitate various treatment options.
During consultations, our medical professionals often hear the question, “Can varicose veins cause leg cramps?” Varicose veins are a purely cosmetic concern for many people due to the visible bulging and twisting of affected veins beneath the skin. However, when the condition progresses, varicose veins could also adversely impact your physical health and functioning.
Muscle cramps in the lower legs are common when varicose veins reach the more severe stages. If symptoms of varicose veins have begun to cause pain or limit your physical abilities, there are several treatment options for long-term relief. Our board-certified professionals are here to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment options in an initial assessment. Call Artemis Vein & Aesthetic Center today to schedule yours.
