Let’s assume that you’ve had varicose veins for some time but have never experienced the typical symptoms associated with visible veins. Then, one day, you start to notice a burning sensation that becomes concerning.
The burning sensation can happen for various reasons, such as intense exercise or being in hot weather for an extended period of time. However, varicose veins with a burning sensation may indicate something more serious, such as vein disease.
Vein disease is a condition in which damaged veins cause blood to pool in the legs instead of flowing back toward the heart. In addition to burning varicose veins, you may also notice leg pain, swelling, and itchiness that could interfere with daily activities.
Understanding what causes varicose veins to burn can help you find ways to manage symptoms and recognize when to seek treatment.
What Does It Mean When Your Veins Burn?
Your veins may burn because when blood pools in the legs, the added pressure on the veins causes fluids to leak into the surrounding tissues. This leakage can irritate the skin, making it dry and itchy in addition to burning.
Varicose veins may also have the following symptoms in the legs:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Fatigue
- Heaviness
- Restlessness at night
These symptoms often signal underlying issues related to vascular health. If you notice these symptoms and they persist, you may have vein disease.
Causes and Risk Factors for Burning Varicose Veins
Varicose veins may burn due to various factors, including inflammation, increased pressure within the veins, nerve irritation, or impaired circulation. Some side effects of varicose veins can also create a burning sensation in the legs, such as varicose eczema or .
Certain variables can increase your chances of developing burning varicose veins. These risk factors include:
- Age
- Gender
- Obesity
- Inactive lifestyle
- Genetics
- Other health conditions, such as diabetes
- Pregnancy
If you have more than one risk factor, your risk of developing varicose veins further increases. While some risk factors are unavoidable, addressing the ones you can control can lower the likelihood of developing burning varicose veins.
How To Find Relief From Varicose Veins Burning
Many people can find temporary relief from burning varicose veins through the following methods:
- Elevating your legs when resting
- Moving around throughout the day
- Wearing compression socks
While these methods provide some relief, they cannot cure the burning sensation in the legs. The most effective way to treat burning varicose veins is through medical intervention.
When Burning Varicose Veins Signal Something More Serious
Burning veins in the leg can sometimes indicate a more serious concern that needs immediate medical attention: deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins in the legs. This can happen because the body is automatically responding to the damage in the veins and clots the blood to promote healing. However, because the damage is permanent, blood clotting can be dangerous.
A notable symptom of DVT is warmth in the affected area. Some additional symptoms to watch out for would include:
- Swelling in only one leg
- Skin redness
- Pain or tenderness in the legs
If DVT is left untreated, it increases the risk of the blood clot breaking off and traveling to the lungs. The blood clot would turn into a pulmonary embolism, which can be fatal. If you experience a sudden shortness of breath, chest pain that worsens while breathing, dizziness, and a rapid heart rate, head straight to the emergency room.
How to Effectively Treat Varicose Veins & the Burning Sensation in Legs
Treating burning varicose veins early can help prevent complications like DVT from occurring. Vein treatments like endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) and ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy (USGS) work to seal off damaged veins, allowing healthy veins to take over. These treatments effectively alleviate vein pain and other symptoms, while lowering your risk of complications.
At USA Vein Clinics, we offer other minimally invasive treatment options for vein disease based on individual vein health, which include:
- Endovenous Laser Therapy [EVLT]
- ClariVein®
- Visual sclerotherapy
- Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy
- Varithena Vein Treatment
- VenaSeal™
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Finding Treatment for Burning Veins
You may be wondering, “Will it be difficult to find treatment for burning veins near me?” With over 168 USA Vein Clinics locations nationwide, vein treatment is convenient and accessible. Our vein specialists are experienced in treating vein disease, many of whom are board-certified.
People who choose USA Vein Clinics for treatment can expect a patient-focused approach to their care. The vein specialists will use evidence-based data to assess each person’s symptoms and personalize treatment plans that fit each condition. You can schedule an appointment easily online or call 888.768.3467 to speak with a Care Team member.
Insurance verification is offered in the scheduling process, ensuring coverage for the consultation and treatment. Affordable repayment options are also available.
You don’t have to live with burning varicose veins much longer. Take the next step toward healthier legs and a more active life today by finding a vein clinic near you.
