One of the most asked questions many ask is – Were my varicose veins caused by poor circulation?

The simple answer is no. Poor circulation can be a symptom of vein disease, but it is not the actual cause.

Poor circulation is a symptom that we should pay attention to. Signs of lack of circulation include pain in the limbs, numbness, stinging, or painful feelings in the hands or feet.

Here is a look at the symptoms of varicose veins and what they have in common with poor circulation in the legs.

Venous insufficiency (varicose veins):

Varicose veins and spider veins are visible on the surface of the skin. They may present as purple, blue, or reddish in color. They may be subtle or large and bulging depending on the amount of damage sustained.

Varicose veins may cause achiness and leg fatigue as well as itching, burning, dryness, discoloration, and even leg ulcerations or they may present no other signs at all depending on the severity and stage. These veins on the skin surface can cause pain and fatigue, as well as a feeling of burning and itching. In later stages, leg ulcerations that are a challenge to heal may also form on the skin surface due to edema, swelling, and dryness of the skin.

You can see there is some cross-over of the symptoms of varicose veins and how poor circulation presents.

Circulatory Issues

The circulatory system is the intrabody blood mobility system that is used to push blood to the extremities by way of the arteries. When the blood has reached the end of the track it is then pushed and pumped back up towards the heart by way of the veins. This process can be trying for the body, especially if the veins are weak or damaged as they work against gravity in order to get back to the heart. Inside the walls of the veins they each house one-way valves which allow blood to flow in a direction pumped by your heartbeat.

Those who are genetically predisposed to having vein issues, as well as women who have been pregnant or those who have had daily jobs standing for long periods of time, can often develop vein disease. When the blood flow to the damaged section of the vein gets blocked, it causes the veins to swell and appear as if they’ve been stretched out. Other symptoms such as leg pain and swelling can also occur.

Vein Treatment Options

If you are worried that your veins might not heal on their own, then it’s important that you seek medical help. In order to get the best possible treatment, it’s important to have the necessary medical intervention.

Thanks to a multitude of medical innovations the treatment of varicose veins is relatively painless and can be performed in a minimally invasive manner. After a thorough examination, a Vein Specialist will determine the best treatment for your condition based on the size, location, and severity of the veins.

If you are noticing poor circulation – cold, numb, discolored, or tingly hands or feet, or are seeing or experiencing other vein issues please don’t hesitate to give our office a call and come in for a consultation. We can take a look at your legs, feet, hands, and arms and give you a proper evaluation. Give us a call to schedule at 813-975-2800 or visit www.tampacardio.com to learn more.