How Varicose Veins Can Interrupt Your Sleep
Discomfort and Pain:
One of the most common symptoms of varicose veins is discomfort and pain. This is due to the pressure that is put on the veins in your legs and feet. This pressure can cause the veins to become swollen and enlarged, which can result in pain and discomfort. The pain and discomfort may be worse when you are lying down, as the blood flow in your legs slows down. If you are experiencing discomfort and pain due to your varicose veins, it can result in frequent waking during the night, which can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling tired and irritable in the morning.
Itching:
In addition to discomfort and pain, varicose veins can also cause itching. This is due to the fact that the skin around the affected area can become dry and irritated, resulting in itching. The itching may be worse at night, as you may be more aware of it when you are trying to sleep. If you are experiencing itching due to your varicose veins, you may find yourself scratching the affected area, which can further irritate the skin and make the itching worse.
Restless Leg Syndrome:
Restless leg syndrome is a condition that is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move your legs. This condition is often worse at night and can be exacerbated by varicose veins. The pressure on your veins can cause your legs to feel heavy and achy, which can make restless leg syndrome worse. If you are experiencing restless leg syndrome due to your varicose veins, you may find yourself tossing and turning in bed, trying to find a comfortable position that will relieve the discomfort in your legs.
Tips For Managing Varicose Veins And Improving Sleep
If you are experiencing discomfort and pain, itching, or restless leg syndrome due to your varicose veins, there are several things you can do to manage your symptoms and improve your sleep:
- Wear Compression Stockings: Compression stockings put pressure on your legs and feet, which can help to reduce swelling and pain. Wear them during the day to prevent symptoms from worsening.
- Elevate Your Legs: Elevating your legs above your heart for 15-20 minutes several times a day can improve blood flow and reduce swelling. Do this before bed to ease discomfort and pain while you sleep.
- Exercise: Exercise helps improve blood flow and prevents the development of new varicose veins. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling are best if high-impact exercises like running or jumping are not possible.
- Keep Your Skin Moisturized: If you experience itching due to your varicose veins, moisturizing your skin can reduce dryness and irritation. Use a fragrance-free and gentle moisturizer.
- Avoid Tight Clothing: Wearing tight clothing, like pants or socks, can restrict blood flow and exacerbate varicose vein symptoms. Opt for loose-fitting clothing instead.
- Varicose Vein Treatments: There are effective methods to prevent, reduce or eliminate pain and visible signs of varicose veins such as:
- Echosclerotherapy, or Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy: a minimally invasive option to target and remove varicose veins.
- Sclerotherapy: a non-surgical and minimally invasive treatment that will eradicate both varicose and spider veins.
To learn more about the benefits of medical-grade compression stockings,
read The Science Behind Compression Stockings.
Varicose Vein Treatment For A Better Sleep At Glenmore Landing Vein Clinic
Varicose veins are a common condition that can not only affect your appearance but also your sleep quality. Discomfort, pain, itching, and restless leg syndrome can keep you from getting the restful sleep you need. By incorporating the tips and strategies discussed in this blog into your daily routine, you can manage your varicose vein symptoms and improve your sleep. Don't let varicose veins control your life and your sleep; take charge of your health and well-being with effective varicose vein treatments. Glenmore Landing Vein Clinic in Calgary delivers advanced vein treatments and a range of top-quality Sigvaris compression stockings. If you are experiencing symptoms of varicose veins call us at (403) 253-2555 or reach us through our online form.
FAQ
Q: Do only women get varicose veins?
A: Although women may be more likely or prone to varicose veins due to pregnancy, or hormonal changes, both women and men can suffer from painful varicose vein symptoms. In fact, we carry our Sigvaris line of compression stockings for both women and men.
Q: How do I prevent varicose veins from getting worse?
A: Regular exercise, weight management, alternating frequently between standing and sitting, and compression stockings are all great ways to prevent varicose veins from getting worse or occurring in the first place.
Q: Will varicose veins go away on their own?
A: Varicose veins will not heal on their own and delaying treatment or a visit to your vein specialist will only worsen your condition and may even lead to more serious ailments.