Varicose veins are a common condition that affects over three million Americans each year. Although there is no cure for varicose veins, there are treatment options available for those who suffer from this condition. Varicose veins are typically benign in nature, and many who suffer from them do not have any symptoms other than a cosmetic concern for their appearance.

For others, varicose veins can cause pain and discomfort. According to NHLBI “Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that you can see just under the surface of the skin.” This twisting and swelling are typically what attributes to many people’s discomfort. This gives the appearance of bulging veins in leg. Let’s take a look at some of the common symptoms of varicose veins.

Common Symptoms of Varicose Veins

• Veins, typically large in appearance, that can be seen just under the skin.
• Swelling, mild in nature, in the legs and feet.
• Legs that feel painful, heavy or ache.
• Cramping or throbbing pain in legs.
• Itching that effects, the lower leg and ankle. This is often times confused with dry skin.
• Discoloration in the skin surrounding the varicose vein.

Although varicose veins do not typically cause a health concern, there are conditions that have been linked to it. Superficial thrombophlebitis is a condition that causes a blood clot just under the surface of an individual’s skin. This blood clot can cause pain to the surrounding area.

Understanding your veins and heart health can also help individuals who are concerned about their cardiovascular health.

How can I Treat Varicose Veins?

The best treatment for varicose veins and bulging veins in leg is a lifestyle change for the affected individual. You can find many tips for lifestyle changes by following this link to WebMD.

There are many things an individual can do at home to help manage their varicose veins. Some of these include:

• Take breaks when standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time.
• When available, raise your legs to be even with your heart.
• When sitting, avoid crossing your legs.
• Improve blood flow by keeping active.
• For those who are overweight, reduce your weight to improve blood circulation.
• Tight clothing is known to make varicose veins worse. Try to wear loose fitting clothing, especially around the waist and groin area.
• High heels constrict blood flow. By wearing a lower heeled shoe, you tone your calf muscle and thus improve blood flow.

Many people opt to wear compression stockings. There are three main types of compression stocking available. The first being a support pantyhose. These offer the least amount of pressure. The second is considered an over-the-counter compression stocking. These offer a medium amount of pressure. You can find these in most pharmacies. The third type of compression hose is a prescription strength support hose. These require that an individual gets fitted for them by a trained person.

Many people also opt for medical intervention and surgeries to correct their varicose veins. Most people who opt for medical intervention participate in things such as laser surgery which makes the vein fade away. Other medical treatments include:

• Sclerotherapy
• Microsclerotherapy
• Endoscopic Vein Surgery
• Endovenous Ablation Therapy
• Ambulatory Phlebectomy
• Vein Stripping and Ligation

Not all treatments are right for everyone. Be sure to discuss your options with your primary care doctor.