Symptoms of Vein Disease

Remarkably, most patients who have varicose veins are not fully aware of their symptoms until after their veins are treated. Varicose veins usually develop very slowly over a period of years. Because of this gradual onset, patients often adjust to the symptoms, accepting pain and discomfort as “normal.” We frequently hear how much better a patient feels only after treatment is complete.

The symptoms of vein disease commonly include complaints of leg “heaviness” or pain or tenderness along the course of the vein. Some patients also describe a sensation of itching or burning within the affected leg. Another common complaint is referred to as “restless leg syndrome.” Patients experience restlessness in their legs, typically at night, as the muscles of the leg contract in an effort to push the blood out of the leg back toward the heart.

Any of these symptoms may become worse during menstruation, with pregnancy or while undergoing hormone therapy such as oral contraceptives. Patients typically experience relief of symptoms when they walk or elevate their legs.

If you suffer from any of the symptoms listed below and opt for varicose vein treatment, you may be surprised at how much discomfort you once accepted as “normal.”

• Pain
• Heaviness
• Exercise intoleranc
• Aching
• Edema
• Phlebitis
• Restless leg
• Leg fatigue / tiredness
• Muscle cramps
• Itching
• Burning