Leg pain is a common discomfort that can be caused by various factors, from fatigue to circulatory issues. However, when the pain occurs without visible varicose veins, you might be dealing with internal varicose veins, a less-known but equally concerning condition. In this blog, Dr. Juan Carlos Peralvo, a vascular surgery specialist in Cuenca, Ecuador, will explain what internal varicose veins are, how to detect them, and what you can do to treat them.
What Are Internal Varicose Veins?
Internal varicose veins, also known as hidden venous insufficiency, occur when the deep veins in the legs struggle to return blood to the heart. While visible varicose veins are easy to identify due to the bulging veins, internal varicose veins affect veins deep beneath the skin, making them harder to diagnose.
This circulatory issue can cause the same symptoms as visible varicose veins, such as pain, swelling, and a heavy feeling in the legs, but without the characteristic bulging veins.
Causes of Internal Varicose Veins
The causes of internal varicose veins are similar to those of visible varicose veins:
- Heredity: If you have a family history of varicose veins, you are more likely to develop venous problems, whether visible or internal.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Sitting or standing for long periods can affect blood circulation in the legs.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased pressure on the veins during pregnancy can contribute to the development of internal varicose veins.
- Overweight or obesity: Excess weight puts extra pressure on the veins, leading to circulation problems.
- Aging: As we age, the walls of the veins and their valves tend to weaken, which can lead to deep venous insufficiency.
Symptoms of Internal Varicose Veins
Although internal varicose veins are not visible, their symptoms are similar to those of external varicose veins:
- Pain or heaviness in the legs, especially after standing or sitting for long periods.
- Swelling in the ankles or feet.
- Muscle cramps, especially at night.
- Skin changes, such as dark spots or dryness.
- Burning or itching sensation in the legs.
If you experience any of these symptoms on a regular basis, it is important to consult a vascular specialist, as you may be suffering from internal varicose veins without realizing it.
Diagnosing Internal Varicose Veins
Since internal varicose veins cannot be seen, specialized tests are necessary to detect them. One of the most common methods is Doppler ultrasound, a non-invasive test that uses sound waves to visualize blood flow and detect problems in the deep veins. This study allows doctors to assess whether venous valves are functioning properly and if there are signs of venous insufficiency.
Treatments for Internal Varicose Veins
Treatment for internal varicose veins will depend on the severity of the venous insufficiency and the symptoms you are experiencing. Some common options include:
1. Compression Stockings
Compression stockings help improve blood flow and relieve the symptoms of internal varicose veins. By applying pressure to the legs, these stockings promote venous return, reducing swelling and the feeling of heaviness.
2. Lifestyle Changes
Adopting healthier habits can make a big difference in the health of your veins. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting can help prevent internal varicose veins from worsening.
3. Endovascular Treatments
In more advanced cases, endovascular treatments such as laser ablation or radiofrequency may be an option. These procedures minimize damage to the affected veins without invasive surgery, helping to close diseased veins and redirect blood flow to healthier veins.
4. Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy
This procedure involves injecting a solution directly into the affected veins to seal them. In the case of internal varicose veins, sclerotherapy is performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure the treatment is administered correctly to the deep veins.
Preventing Internal Varicose Veins
While it is not always possible to prevent internal varicose veins, following these recommendations can help reduce the risk:
- Stay active: Regular exercise improves circulation and prevents blood from pooling in the veins.
- Elevate your legs: If you spend long periods standing or sitting, try elevating your legs for a few minutes to help blood return to the heart.
- Control your weight: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the pressure on the veins in your legs.
- Wear compression stockings: If you have a family history of venous problems or work in a job that requires you to stand for long periods, consider wearing compression stockings.
Conclusion: See a Specialist if You Experience Leg Pain Without Visible Varicose Veins
If you feel pain, swelling, or cramps in your legs but don’t see any visible varicose veins, you might be dealing with internal varicose veins. Don’t ignore these symptoms, as deep venous insufficiency can worsen over time if left untreated. Dr. Juan Carlos Peralvo, a vascular surgery specialist in Cuenca, can offer you a precise diagnosis and personalized treatment to improve your venous health and quality of life.
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