Varicose leg pain and inflammation of the blood vessel walls are usually caused by poorly functioning veins. Varicose veins are dilated veins in which blood does not flow properly back to the heart, leading to congestion and increased venous pressure.
This can cause a number of problems:
- Venous insufficiency and congestion
Congestion: when blood does not flow properly, it can become trapped in the blood vessels, resulting in increased pressure. This pressure can lead to dilation and inflammation of the vessel walls, causing pain and swelling.
Venous valve insufficiency: the valves in the veins of the lower limbs are designed to prevent blood from flowing backwards. When these valves do not work properly, blood flows backwards, causing stasis and venous stenosis.
- Inflammation
Phlebitis: phlebitis is an inflammation of the veins, often as a result of varicose vein disease. Inflammation can be caused by stasis of blood, damage to the vessel walls or, rarely, infection. Inflamed veins are painful, swollen and often warm to the touch.
Thrombophlebitis: if the inflamed vein also contains a blood clot, it is called thrombophlebitis, a more serious condition, as the blood clot in the veins can cause further complications during movement.
- Vascular wall damage
Mechanical effects: the increased pressure in the legs due to standing or sitting affects the vessel walls, which can lead to inflammation.
Oxidative stress: poor circulation results in less oxygen to the cells of the vascular walls, which can cause oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Overweight and sedentary lifestyle
Excess weight and a sedentary lifestyle can also contribute to venous insufficiency by increasing pressure on the legs and impairing circulation, which can lead to inflammation and pain.
- Hormonal effects
Hormones: hormonal changes, for example during pregnancy, can also play a role in the development of varicose veins and vasculitis, as hormones can cause blood vessels to dilate and blood circulation to change.
These things you can do to relieve symptoms
Wearing compression stockings: this can help the blood flow back, reducing congestion and pressure on the vessel walls.
Regular exercise: mild exercise, such as walking, improves circulation and reduces venous pressure.
Padding your feet: whenever you can, pad your feet to help blood flow back to the heart.
Anti-inflammatory creams: certain topical creams can help to relieve inflammation and pain (we recommend this one, click here)
If the symptoms are very intense, such as severe pain, significant swelling or redness, you should seek medical advice as the inflammation can be dangerous and needs immediate treatment. In severe cases, medical intervention may be necessary! It is worth starting prevention early.
