Help! My Varicose Veins Won’t Stop Itching!
One of the most common aggravations associated with varicose veins is itching. There are many other symptoms associated with varicose veins, ranging from cosmetic issues like visibly gnarled veins to swelling, burning, and pain. We know that this causes discomfort and we’re here to help you have a better understanding of why and how you can relieve that itchiness!
“If left untreated, symptoms can worsen, and you can develop other illnesses that can make your legs feel and look worse.”
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are caused by increased blood pressure in the veins. Over time, it can lead to swelling of the ankles and legs, severe pain and discomfort, poorly healing wounds and complaints of “tired” or “heavy” legs.
Why are my varicose veins itching?
Itchy veins develop because of a condition that happens in conjunction with varicose veins called stasis dermatitis. Stasis dermatitis causes itchiness, aching, flaky skin, redness, scaling, and even hyperpigmentation (darkened spots on the skin). This condition occurs when the blood that builds up in the damaged blood vessels begins to leak. Lack of oxygen reaching the skin near the veins has been linked to the inflammation and swelling of the veins.
What can you do if your varicose veins cause itching?
There are multiple ways you can manage your varicose veins to decrease discomfort. Here are a few tips to soothe those unnerving sensations:
- Elevate Legs – Elevating the legs can reduce the amount of blood pooling in the veins and reduce the symptoms associated with varicose veins.
- Antihistamines – Medications like Benadryl stop the chemical histamine from flaring up, which causes the skin to itch.
- Medicated Topical Creams – Topical creams that contain corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors (immunosuppressants) can reduce inflammation and relieve itching.
Why is varicose vein itchiness important to treat?
Repeated itching irritates the skin and leads to wounds, which may cause venous eczema. If left untreated, symptoms can worsen, and you can develop other illnesses that can make your legs feel and look worse.
Is there a way I can find relief?
There are many treatments for vein disease. The procedure you need is dependent on your diagnosis. Indiana Vein and Laser Center takes a personalized approach to every patient’s care. Our facility offers state-of-the-art technology, including ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, endovenous laser therapy, and microphlebectomy.
Making sure you’re healthy and happy with your legs is what we focus on every day. If you already have or suspect that you have varicose veins, call us to schedule your consultation today! Fort Wayne, IN, 260.432.7654 | Fishers, IN, 317.915.8323. You can also schedule an appointment with us online! We look forward to providing you with safe and compassionate care.
DISCLAIMER
The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images, and other material contained on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new healthcare regimen.
