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Recognising the Symptoms of Varicose Veins: When to Seek Help

Painful, Restless Legs? It Could Be Varicose Veins

Do you suffer from heavy, aching legs or frequent leg cramps? Varicose veins are damaged veins that may appear as raised, lumpy veins on the skin’s surface. However, they can also be invisible deep veins that may cause significant discomfort.

Recognising the first signs of varicose veins is crucial for early treatment and effective management. Many people mistake their symptoms for general tiredness or restlessness in the legs, delaying early treatment.

Common Symptoms of Varicose Veins

  • Raised, bulging veins – Often appearing twisted and prominent on the legs.
  • Thread veins – Smaller, visible veins near the surface of the skin.
  • Swollen feet and ankles – Especially noticeable after prolonged standing or sitting.
  • Aching, heavy, or tired legs – A persistent feeling of discomfort and fatigue in the legs.
  • Muscle cramps and twitching – Often occurring at night or after long periods of inactivity.

“I noticed long periods of sitting were causing dull pain in my left leg.”

Understanding Poor Circulation and Varicose Veins

Poor circulation occurs when blood does not flow freely through the body. Varicose veins can disrupt normal blood circulation, causing veins to appear raised or swollen. Instead of blood flowing smoothly back to the heart, some of it pools in superficial veins, leading to symptoms such as aching, swelling, and night cramps.

Managing Symptoms at Home

Pain and discomfort from varicose veins can often be alleviated by simple lifestyle adjustments. Elevating your legs whenever possible can help reduce swelling and improve blood circulation. Using pillows or a footrest while resting, watching TV, or reading can provide relief.

Simple changes, such as taking regular breaks when sitting for long periods, can help improve blood flow and may temporarily ease varicose vein symptoms.

However, if symptoms become a daily occurrence or you experience swelling in the legs and ankles, a professional evaluation of your vascular health is recommended.

When to Seek Professional Advice

  • Changes in the skin around your legs, especially near the ankles.
  • An increase in broken veins or newly visible, raised veins.
  • Persistent swelling or discomfort that does not improve.

Expert Consultation with Michael Gaunt

For expert diagnosis and tailored treatment, book a consultation with leading vascular surgeon Mr Michael Gaunt. During your appointment, he will personally assess your condition, discuss your concerns, and conduct a Duplex ultrasound scan to examine your veins in detail. A bespoke treatment plan will be designed specifically for your needs.

Book a Consultation at a Clinic Near You

Don’t let varicose veins impact your quality of life. For professional advice and treatment, book a consultation with Michael Gaunt today.

Clinic Locations:

  • Harley Street, London
  • Cambridge
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Flying with Varicose vein symptoms

Varicose veins can be problematic on long journeys. Micheal Gaunt offers his advice and support to help you manage varicose vein symptoms.

Recently featured in The Great British Life  you can read  Michael Gaunt’ professional advice to help make your holiday travelling more comfortable:  read more>

Keep moving

Travelling and inactivity needn’t go hand in hand. Making the most of every opportunity to move your legs, ankles and feet will help boost circulation and improve blood flow.

By stimulating your circulation you immediately minimise varicose vein symptoms and the risk of complications such as DVT, deep vein thrombosis.

Simple excercises you can manage whilst travelling include ankle rotations, lifting your heels off the floor, raising your legs and short walks. Repeat intermittently during travel.

Pre-flight assessment

You can book a consultation with Mr Michael Gaunt to assess your varicose veins and vascular health before you travel. He will listen to your concerns, personally talk you through any required treatments and offer his expert advice on managing symptoms.

Before travelling it’s wise to consider a vascular health assessment, especially if you suffer with painful legs and varicose veins.

 

 

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Travelling with varicose veins: embark on your next adventure with confidence

Healthy legs: varicose vein treatment

Can I fly with varicose veins? Discover how to keep your legs healthy while travelling and learn valuable tips to prevent varicose veins from dampening your wanderlust.

“I paid for a pre-travel assessment with Michael Gaunt, it was the best money I spent”

Concerned about managing leg cramps and  varicose veins? From long flights to scenic hikes, we’ve got you covered. Read our blog now and start planning your next journey with peace of mind!

Walking barefoot along a beach on holiday
Photo: Lia-Stepanov

Work life balance

So many of us are setting out on new adventures as we regain our work life balance, working remotely or retiring early. The zest for life is multi-generational with retirement no longer seen as an opportunity to slow-down. Baby boomers are into self-care, active holidays, cultural tours, luxury stays and cruises, they are no longer the stay-at-home generation. Far from it.

“Nothing beats the feeling of freedom and the opportunity to see the world”

Embracing adventure at any age! 

Getting older doesn’t mean slowing down. In fact, it can be the perfect time to embrace new adventures and experiences. Whether it’s trekking through the Amazon rainforest, exploring ancient ruins in Greece, or simply relaxing on a pristine beach in the Caribbean, the world is yours to discover.

Now you can plan longer trips, take spontaneous getaways, or pursue hobbies and interests that align with your travel aspirations.

Prioritising Vascular Health

While the allure of travel is undeniable, it’s crucial to pay attention to your vascular health, especially as you age. Vascular conditions, such as varicose veins, can affect individuals of any age but become more prevalent as you get older. Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that often appear blue or dark purple and can cause discomfort, swelling, and aching in the legs.

“I was anxious about flying with painful, lumpy varicose veins” 

Flying with varicose veins: before and after varicose vein treatment by Mr Michael Gaunt.
Photo: Before and after varicose vein treatment by Mr Michael Gaunt

Varicose veins signs and symptoms

Bulging, twisted faulty veins in the lower leg and ankles, allowing blood to travel in the wrong direction.

  • Raised bulging veins on skin
  • Swollen feet and ankles
  • Aching, heavy legs
  • Muscle cramps, twitching in your legs
  • Red or darkened skin over the affected area
  • Blue veins under the skin surface

Tips for travelling with varicose veins

Long hours of sitting during flights or car rides, coupled with dehydration and changes in altitude, can exacerbate vascular issues. Prolonged inactivity can increase the risks of developing DVT, deep vein thrombosis. Therefore, it’s essential to take pro-active steps to care for your vascular health while travelling.

Travelling with varicose veins top tips:

  1. Stay Active: Incorporate regular movement into your travel itinerary. Take breaks during long journeys to stretch your legs, go for short walks, or engage in low-impact exercises like yoga or swimming.
  2. Hydrate: Proper hydration is vital for maintaining healthy blood circulation. Drink plenty of water, especially during flights or in hot climates, to prevent dehydration and reduce the risk of blood clots.
  3. Wear Compression Socks: Compression socks can help improve circulation and alleviate symptoms associated with varicose veins. Wear them during long flights or extended periods of sitting to minimize discomfort and swelling in your legs.
  4. Elevate Your Legs: Whenever possible, elevate your legs to reduce swelling and improve blood flow. Use pillows or footrests to prop up your legs while resting, whether you’re on a plane, train, or in your hotel room.
  5. Choose Comfortable Footwear: Opt for shoes with good arch support and cushioning to minimize strain on your feet and legs. Avoid high heels or tight-fitting shoes, as they can exacerbate circulation issues and contribute to discomfort.
  6. Practise Healthy Habits: Maintain a balanced diet, limit alcohol consumption, and avoid smoking, as these lifestyle factors can impact vascular health. Incorporate nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins into your meals to support overall wellbeing.

Find out out to book a consultation>

Pre-travel varicose vein and vascular health assessment

Contact Mr Michael Gaunt, consultant vascular surgeon, for an in-depth review of your varicose veins and vascular health. He will personally answer your concerns, examine your legs, perform a Duplex ultrasound scan and organise a bespoke treatment plan and varicose vein surgery if needed.

Going on holiday when you have painful varicose veins?

Are you planning a holiday, but are worried about long distance travel with varicose veins? Share your experience:

Book a consultation>  Call 01223 305858 and Mr Gaunt’s administrative team will book a consultation for you.