subject: Pain in the Legs Caused by Varicose Veins [print this page] Pain in the Legs Caused by Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are found in both men and women. There's a common misconception that women suffer more than men, although some research and studies have indicated that men, in fact, are more affected by large varicose veins than women.
One reason for this misconception may be that some men are less likely than women to seek treatment for various health conditions, and some data collections are based on the number of patients with the condition that are examined by healthcare providers. The veins may even be more difficult to see on men than on women, as men tend wear long pants more than women, and have more hair their legs that may cover up the condition to an extent. While many believe that men and women are equally affected by varicose veins, there are still those who hold that women are more affected.
Many women are first affected by the venous condition during pregnancy. With the uterus growing, increased pressure is put on the inferior vena cava, which is the large vein on the right side of the body. As a result, this puts added pressure on the veins in the legs, which may lead to varicose veins. Many women, especially those who did not have vein problems before pregnancy, report that their varicose-veins improve after giving birth. If they don't improve, certain treatments may be helpful in providing relief.
Varicose veins appear as bulging and purplish and are considered very unsightly by many individuals. Physical symptoms of varicose-veins may include aching, a burning sensation, swollen ankles, charley horse and night cramps. Individuals suffering from this may also complain of pain after prolonged periods of sitting or standing.
Types of Veins Treatments
Treatments may begin with the use of compression stockings and various home remedies such as elevating the legs, weight loss and exercise. If these methods are unsuccessful, other treatments or procedures may be used to bring relief. It is important to determine whether one is suffering from spider veins or varicose veins, as treatment may differ depending on the diagnosis. Some treatments are used for both conditions, while others are specific to either type of vein condition.
Endovenous laser ablation and VNUS ClosureFAST are two types of treatments that utilize laser technology to close problem veins. Sclerotherapy may also be used to treat these painful veins, although it tends to be used for spider veins and smaller varicose veins.
