Varicose veins are caused by circulatory system dysfunction. Although varicose veins can appear everywhere on the body, they are most commonly found in the legs. Varicose veins are linked to several leg disorders. What are these syndromes, and how do they affect varicose veins? In this post, we will solve these doubts, and you will learn more about varicose veins.
Varicose veins, a problem beyond aesthetics
Varicose veins are mostly considered only an aesthetic problem because of the appearance they cause on the skin. When they affect the legs, these veins are visible to the naked eye because they protrude from the skin due to dilatation.
Varicose veins are distinguished by their shape: bulging, twisted, blue, and reddish. This appearance results from an accumulation of blood and a widening of the veins. In some cases, improper blood flow may lead to the formation of life-threatening blood clots.
Symptoms of varicose veins
Depending on the severity of the condition, people with varicose veins in the legs may experience the following:
– Night cramps
– Pain
– Swelling, itching, and heaviness in the legs
– Irritation and changes in skin coloring
– Ulcers
Symptoms may worsen after prolonged standing or sitting. Sometimes varicose veins can limit a person’s activities.
People more likely to have varicose veins
Some factors increase the likelihood of varicose veins. Some of these factors are:
– Older age
– Family history of circulatory problems
– Sedentary lifestyle
– Obesity
– Being a woman
Syndromes of the legs and their relation to varicose veins
Some syndromes have been related to the presence of varicose veins; however, this association is still unclear. Among these syndromes are:
1) Restless legs syndrome
People suffering from this syndrome have an uncontrolled impulse to move their legs due to severe discomfort. The feeling is briefly relieved by movement. It is more prevalent in the evening or at night, and many have involuntary leg movements while sleeping.
The origin of this condition is unknown at this time, although it can induce sleep disruptions and daytime tiredness. Varicose veins and venous insufficiency are prevalent in persons with restless legs syndrome, but their association is uncertain.
2) Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD)
PLMD is a condition in the legs that causes them to move uncontrollably while the person sleeps. The contractions in the legs occur every 20 to 40 seconds during sleep and can last from less than 1 second to 10 seconds. These nocturnal movements do not awaken the sufferer but can be perceived by the bed partner.
However, this disorder can disrupt sleep because it may occur just as the person falls asleep. The causes of this disorder are unknown, but it is common for people with narcolepsy to have it.
Doctors who treat this disorder evaluate whether the person has a vascular disease or varicose veins. These conditions can also cause involuntary movements and discomfort in the legs during sleep.
3) Economy class syndrome
This syndrome refers to the appearance of blood clots due to poor mobility. It is named after various factors related to a flight (such as immobilization, low humidity, and hypobaric hypoxia) and the person’s condition (obesity, use of contraceptives).
People who are older, obese, have cancer, or have recent surgeries are more likely to suffer venous thromboembolism during air travel. Also, people with varicose veins have a moderate risk of clot creation.
Conclusion
Varicose veins are a common problem among the female population. While it is not yet known how the leg syndromes related to varicose veins, physicians have observed that some patients with varicose veins have some of the previously mentioned syndromes. See a vein doctor if you have varicose veins; they can help you find the best treatment.
Read Also
- Teeth Aligners: The Best way to Straighten your TeethTeeth Aligners or clear aligners help you fix your crooked teeth in a simple and modern way. These aligners are becoming more popular among dentists and patients as they are more comfortable and easier to use than other options. Options like metal braces or invisible braces have been in use to treat orthodontic issues for… Read more: Teeth Aligners: The Best way to Straighten your Teeth
- Bill Taverner on the Future of Sex EducationIn many parts of the United States, the future of sex education hangs in the balance as it increasingly becomes a hot-button issue in political and social discourse. With new legislation and school board policies cropping up across the country aiming to curtail or reshape sex education, experts like Bill Taverner, the Executive Director of… Read more: Bill Taverner on the Future of Sex Education
- The Scary Symptoms of a Brain Injury to Look Out For After an AccidentIn the wake of an accident, amidst the flurry of emotions and concerns, one often overlooks the potential signs of a silent threat, a brain injury. Beyond the visible wounds, these injuries can manifest in subtle yet alarming symptoms. From persistent headaches to disruptions in vision or speech, the indicators are varied and sometimes cryptic.… Read more: The Scary Symptoms of a Brain Injury to Look Out For After an Accident
- Early Identification of Mental Health Issues: The Importance of Timely InterventionIn the rapid pace of contemporary life, pausing to check in on our mental health is crucial. Often, we might dismiss the early signs of mental health problems, thinking they’re simply the result of a stressful period or a few bad days. However, early recognition of these signs can significantly impact managing these issues and… Read more: Early Identification of Mental Health Issues: The Importance of Timely Intervention
- How Developments in Technology Can Improve the Lives of People with AutismIt’s easy to focus on the negatives of the modern world, especially as far as modern technology often looks to change what you’re familiar with, but it’s also valuable to recognize the swathe of improvements that these developments bring. In particular, people who have conditions like autism might find that there are more options and… Read more: How Developments in Technology Can Improve the Lives of People with Autism