Varicose vein pain relief and management guide

Varicose vein pain relief: Everything you need to know

Pain arising from varicose veins can be a constant struggle for many individuals, causing discomfort, limiting daily activities and leading to strain on an individual’s mental health.

However, fear not, there are ways to manage and help alleviate the pain and discomfort that varicose veins can cause, ranging from simple home remedies, right through to surgery to treat the underlying condition.

What causes varicose vein pain?

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that are often blue or dark purple in colour. They typically appear in the legs, but can also develop in other parts of the body. When the valves in the veins don’t function properly, blood pools in the veins, causing them to become enlarged, which can sometimes cause pain or discomfort.

The pain caused by varicose veins can vary from person to person, with some experiencing mild discomfort or heaviness in the legs, whilst others experience severe pain.

Causes of pain can include:

• Phlebitis: Inflammation of the vein caused by damage to the vein wall or by a blood clot that blocks a vein. Inflammation of a vein near the surface of the skin is known as superficial thrombophlebitis, whereas with a deeper vein it is known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Lymphoedema: Varicose veins can impact the lymphatic system, a network of vessels that help to transport and remove waste products and toxins. Sometimes varicose veins can damage the lymphatic system, causing swelling, often in the feet and toes
• Dermatitis: An itchy or inflamed rash, often appearing on the lower leg or ankle. Dermatitis can cause bleeding, skin ulcers or sores that can be painful and become infected if scratched or irritated
• Burst vein: If a vein bursts, blood can pool around the affected area, resulting in a build up of pressure and toxins. Sometimes an ulcer may develop or the skin may tear, which can be extremely painful

Any pain is usually worse during warm weather or after long periods of standing, and can also be exacerbated by pregnancy, obesity or living a sedentary lifestyle.

Varicose vein pain management

Many sufferers of varicose veins do not experience significant discomfort and are able to live life normally, however there are simple methods of pain management available for those that need it:

• Exercise: Regular low-impact exercise, such as walking or swimming, can help improve blood flow and strengthen the muscles surrounding the veins, alleviating any pain
• Compression stockings: Wearing stockings can help to improve blood flow and protect the skin, easing pain and reducing irritation
• Elevating your legs: Raising your legs above heart level for 15 minutes at regular intervals reduces the pressure on your veins and can help to reduce swelling and pain
• Painkillers: Over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen, can also be used to manage pain

The above home treatments can help alleviate symptoms however it should be noted that they will not treat the underlying cause of the condition. Without medical intervention any venous condition is unlikely to improve and could get worse over time.

Varicose vein treatment

If home remedies do not provide appropriate pain relief then medical treatment may be required to treat the underlying condition. There are several options available depending on your specific condition:

• Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA): A laser is used to heat the affected vein from the inside, causing it to close up and disappear
• Avulsions (phlebectomies): Tiny cuts are made in the skin through which the varicose vein is removed
• Radiofrequency ablation: Radiofrequency energy is used to heat the wall of the affected vein, causing it to close up and disappear
• Sclerotherapy: A foam solution is injected into the vein, causing it to collapse and eventually disappear
• Surgical stripping / litigation: In more severe cases surgery will be required to remove the vein under general anaesthetic

At AVA Clinics we provide EVLA and sclerotherapy, which are minimally invasive and are considered the most clinically effective methods of treatment. In some instances avulsions will be required alongside EVLA and sclerotherapy to ensure the best clinical outcome.

Conclusion

Varicose vein pain can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life however there are several ways to manage and treat it.

By incorporating lifestyle changes and home remedies individuals can alleviate their symptoms and improve their day-to-day lives, however in some instances it may be the best course of action to treat the underlying cause of the condition through a medical procedure.

If you would like to discuss your condition then please feel free to reach out and speak to one of our experts, who will be happy to provide advice and discuss the most appropriate course of action for you.