Feet. The part of the body at the end of the leg. Just as varicose veins affect the thigh and calves, they can also affect the feet. Veins in the feet also contain valves that over time may no longer function appropriately. As the valves lose function, blood backs up in the veins, stretching the veins, leading to varicose veins.
But what is the root cause of varicose veins in the feet? There are a number of factors, including genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, age, and sex that can all play a role in the development of varicose veins.
To book an appointment with Dr. Mackay or ask a question, call (727) 261-0045 or fill out an appointment request form.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins in the Feet
If you have dealt with varicose veins in your legs, varicose veins in the feet cause similar symptoms. In most cases, the pain from varicose veins in the feet is usually more severe. This has to do with more pressure being placed on the feet, as the feet carry the majority of the body weight with standing and walking. The varicose veins are usually obvious by their appearance with enlarged, violaceous veins on the surface of the feet, but swelling also occurs which usually worsens through the day, as well as pain, achiness, and muscle cramps. Learn more about varicose vein symptoms at www.drmackay.com/common-symptoms-varicose-veins.
Treatment for Feet Varicose Veins
If the pressure from bodyweight makes the veins worse, it seems as though rest would be a prime treatment option, however this is not the case. Whether the varicose veins are in the legs or in the feet, walking and low impact exercises are an important treatment to reduce swelling and pain.
Since the valves in varicose veins no longer function, the best way for the blood to be moved out of the is through muscle contraction. Low impact exercises daily can contract the muscles to help move the blood through the veins and back to the heart.
Other common treatments are the use of compression hose and elevation. Compression hose place pressure onto the feet to reduce swelling and help move blood from the vein and toward the heart. Elevation works by reducing swelling by moving blood by gravity toward the heart.
Elevation, compression, and exercise can fail over time or fail to fully treat the symptoms from varicose veins. Permanent treatment options are available that are minimally invasive and can be performed in a clinic setting. Learn more about laser treatment for varicose veins.
What to do if you have Feet Varicose Veins
Don’t let your varicose veins in your feet keep you from enjoying life to its fullest. See a vascular surgeon today to learn more about treatment options.
To book an appointment with Dr. Mackay or ask a question, call (727) 261-0045 or fill out an appointment request form.
Meet ABMS Board Certified Surgeon, Dr. Mackay
Contact the office of Dr. Edward Mackay, a board certified vascular surgeon providing services to patients in the Tampa area.
