What causes leg pain due to varicose veins, and what should be done about it?
Oct 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Long-term smoking may trigger lower limb arterial occlusive disease, leading to insufficient blood supply to the legs, which can cause varicose veins and leg pain. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as intermittent claudication and decreased skin temperature. It is recommended to use medications such as alprostadil injection, sarpogrelate hydrochloride tablets, and nitroglycerin tablets under the guidance of a physician for treatment.
Generally, leg pain caused by varicose veins may be due to prolonged maintenance of the same posture, genetic factors, varicose veins themselves, phlebitis, or lower extremity arterial occlusive disease. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Prolonged Maintenance of the Same Posture
Maintaining the same posture for extended periods increases venous pressure in the lower limbs, promoting the development of varicose veins and resulting in leg pain. This may also be accompanied by symptoms such as a heavy feeling in the legs, fatigue, and mild swelling. It is recommended to change postures regularly and avoid prolonged standing or sitting.
2. Genetic Factors
If there is a family history of varicose veins, there may be a hereditary predisposition, making veins more prone to dilation and valve dysfunction, which can lead to leg pain. Common signs include visibly enlarged leg veins and spider-like veins. Adjusting lifestyle habits in daily life can help slow disease progression.
3. Varicose Veins
When venous valves are damaged or venous walls are weak, veins may become dilated and twisted, forming varicose veins. This impairs local blood circulation and causes leg pain, possibly accompanied by itching and skin discoloration. It is recommended to take medications such as diosmin tablets, calcium dobesilate capsules, or warfarin sodium tablets under medical guidance. Additionally, wearing compression stockings can provide external pressure to promote blood return.
4. Phlebitis
Phlebitis may be caused by infections, trauma, medications, or other factors. Inflammation leads to swelling and thickening of the vein wall, narrowing the vessel lumen and impairing blood flow, which may result in varicose veins and leg pain. Symptoms may include fever and tenderness upon touch. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as aspirin sustained-release tablets, acetaminophen tablets, or ibuprofen sustained-release capsules for symptom relief.
5. Lower Extremity Arterial Occlusive Disease
Long-term smoking may trigger lower extremity arterial occlusive disease, leading to insufficient blood supply to the legs, which can contribute to varicose veins and cause leg pain. Additional symptoms may include intermittent claudication and reduced skin temperature. Under medical supervision, treatment may include medications such as alprostadil injection, sarpogrelate hydrochloride tablets, or nitroglycerin tablets.
In daily life, appropriate physical exercise is recommended to enhance physical strength and boost immune function.
