Leg Aching
Leg pain as a result of venous insufficiency can happen to anyone of any age. Pain can range from a dull ache to an intense stabbing sensation. Though most leg pain is due to overuse, injuries in muscles, ligaments or bones, some types of pain result from medical conditions. If you are experiencing persistent or severe pain, consult a vein specialist as soon as possible. A timely diagnosis and treatment for underlying conditions can prevent the pain from getting worse.
Causes of Leg Pain
Muscle Cramps
This is a common cause of leg pain. A cramp happens suddenly with a sharp pain as the leg muscles contract. The intense lower leg pain also called "charley horse" may occur in your sleep or during the daytime. You might be able to notice some redness and swelling in the surrounding area. Muscle leg cramps happen when the muscle is fatigued or dehydrated.
Medical Conditions
Blood clots. When the blood flow doesn't function appropriately, it prevents the blood from traveling from the legs back to your heart. The blood clot usually forms in the lower leg or thigh. You're more likely to develop blood clots if you:
Have a sedentary lifestyle
Sit or stand for prolonged periods
Are overweight
Smoke
Blood clots develop in a deep vein and can sometimes pose a life-threatening health issue known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The clot in this condition could travel to an artery in the lungs and block blood flow.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins appear as twisted, dark blue or purple veins that can be seen on the surface of the skin. As vein valves become weakened or damaged, blood pools and cause varicose veins to develop. It's a symptom of chronic venous insufficiency.
Symptoms of varicose veins include:
Leg Pain
Leg cramps
Discomfort
Swelling
Heaviness
Itching
Skin Discoloration
When to Find a Vein Doctor Near Me
There are many causes of leg pain. In most cases, it is temporary pain and can be relieved at home. When leg pain is chronic and coupled with other symptoms of venous insufficiency, a vein screening may help to diagnose the problem. Schedule an appointment with a vein specialist at your nearest clinic if you're experiencing:
Persistent pain while walking.
Leg Heaviness
Leg Pain
Skin Discoloration
Eczema
Leg Ulcers
Stasis Dermatitis
Hyperpigmentation
Itching and Burning
Minimally Invasive Treatments
Physicians Vein Clinics specializes in treating venous insufficiencies and can help determine how to best treat vein disease. Early diagnosis can prevent more serious problems in the future and provide you with improved results and a better quality of life.
Never ignore leg pain that doesn’t seem to be going away or that’s accompanied by other symptoms. Doing so could be dangerous. See your doctor if you’re concerned about your leg pain.
Why Physicians Vein Clinics
Board-certified vein doctors with years of experience
12 convenient vein centers across South Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota
Minimally Invasive procedures for spider veins, varicose veins and vein-related symptoms
Free screening for every patient.
