Don't Ignore Your Legs: 12 Vein Disease Symptoms You Need to Know

Do your legs ever feel heavy, achy, or tired, especially after a long day? Have you noticed any swelling, skin changes, or unusual sensations in your legs?

While these symptoms may not seem like a serious condition, they might be signs of vein disease.

Varicose veins afflict more than 25 million people in the United States, and more than 6 million harbor severe venous disease, according to the National Library of Medicine.

“One in four women have varicose veins and chronic venous disease, and about 15% of men have it too,” CHRISTUS Health cardiologist Dr. Jeffery Carr said. “Most vein disease symptoms are ignored or not understood to be related to vein health.”

Dr. Carr specializes in cardiology and diagnosing and treating various vein disorders, from varicose veins to chronic venous insufficiency. Vein disorder symptoms can significantly impact your life.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that often appear as blue or purple bulges beneath the skin, most commonly on the legs. They occur when the valves in the veins become weak or damaged, allowing blood to flow backward and pool in the veins.

What is chronic venous insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency, commonly called CVI, is when the veins have difficulty sending blood back to the heart. This can lead to various symptoms, including leg pain, swelling, skin changes, and ulcers. CVI is often a progression of untreated varicose veins.

"Addressing vein disease early can prevent a cascade of health issues. When patients understand the signs and seek timely intervention, they often experience a profound improvement in their daily lives," said Dr. Noah Israel, a cardiologist and vein specialist at CHRISTUS Heart and Vascular institute in Tyler.

12 Vein Disease Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore:

1. Leg Heaviness or Aching:This is one of the most common symptoms, often described as a feeling of fullness or discomfort in the legs.
2. Leg Fatigue or Tiredness: If your legs feel excessively tired or worn out, even after minimal activity, it could be a sign of poor circulation.
3. Leg Swelling: Swelling, especially around the ankles and feet, can occur due to fluid buildup caused by vein dysfunction.
4. Varicose Veins: These are enlarged, twisted veins often appear as blue or purple bulges beneath the skin.
5. Spider Veins: These are smaller, web-like clusters of veins that often appear red or blue.
6. Skin Changes: Skin color, texture, or thickness changes can occur due to poor circulation and inflammation.
7. Leg Ulcers: These are open sores that develop on the skin, often around the ankles, and can be difficult to heal.
8. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): This neurological condition is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.
9. Leg Cramps: Muscle cramps, especially at night, can indicate vein disease.
10. Itching or Burning Sensations: These sensations can occur due to inflammation and irritation in the veins.
11. Numbness or Tingling: These sensations can occur due to nerve compression or damage caused by swollen veins.
12. Painful Throbbing or Stabbing: hese sensations can occur due to inflammation and increased pressure in the veins.

Get Care for Vein Disease Symptoms

While vein disease symptoms may seem minor initially, they can significantly impact your quality of life if left untreated. Additionally, untreated vein disease can lead to severe complications, such as blood clots, skin ulcers, and chronic pain.

“When they get treated, they can't believe it. It changes their life in so many ways,” Dr. Carr said.