Why do veins throb

These conditions define varicose veins when the issue becomes chronic, and additional pressure from pooled blood stretches vein walls even further. The normal contractions of leg muscles as you walk or exercise create a pumping action that helps return blood to the heart. If you spend long hours standing or sitting because of work or hobbies, you add further strain on the valves. Indeed one is likely to have varicosities under the skin which are just not visible to the naked eye in this situation.

You can help support your venous valves using these strategies:. Banda can help you further with minimally invasive varicose vein treatments if your condition warrants. You can ease the discomfort of throbbing veins, so book your appointment now. Varicose veins affect about one-quarter of the adult population with symptoms ranging from cosmetic only to discomfort and pain. Sclerotherapy and endovenous ablation are two common treatments to relieve the condition. To return blood to your heart, the veins in your legs must work against gravity.

Varicose veins may be caused by weakened valves incompetent valves within the veins that allow blood to pool in your veins instead of traveling to your heart. Spider veins appear as thin, red lines or as weblike networks of blood vessels on the surface of the skin.

Spider veins, a mild form of varicose veins, typically appear on the legs and feet. Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins. Any superficial vein may become varicosed, but the veins most commonly affected are those in your legs. That's because standing and walking upright increases the pressure in the veins of your lower body. For many people, varicose veins and spider veins — a common, mild variation of varicose veins — are simply a cosmetic concern.

For other people, varicose veins can cause aching pain and discomfort. Sometimes varicose veins lead to more-serious problems. Spider veins are similar to varicose veins, but they're smaller. Spider veins are found closer to the skin's surface and are often red or blue. Spider veins occur on the legs, but can also be found on the face.

They vary in size and often look like a spider's web. Self-care — such as exercise, elevating your legs or wearing compression stockings — can help you ease the pain of varicose veins and may prevent them from getting worse. But if you're concerned about how your veins look and feel and self-care measures haven't stopped your condition from getting worse, see your doctor. Weak or damaged valves can lead to varicose veins. Arteries carry blood from your heart to the rest of your tissues, and veins return blood from the rest of your body to your heart, so the blood can be recirculated.

Muscle contractions in your lower legs act as pumps, and elastic vein walls help blood return to your heart. Tiny valves in your veins open as blood flows toward your heart then close to stop blood from flowing backward. Blood vessels have a tendency to dilate with higher temperatures, which makes it even harder for the valves to function properly. The symptoms also worsen as the day progresses and more blood pools around your ankles.

Prolonged periods of sitting or standing are also considered aggravating factors and can result in pain. For immediate relief from the pain and discomfort associated with varicose veins, elevate your legs above your heart.

You can place your feet up on a table, stretch them up a wall, or lie down in bed and rest your legs on three or four pillows. This will help make it easier for blood flow in your lower body to circulate toward the heart, and the venous valves will function more effectively.

Stay with your legs elevated for at least 15 minutes at a time — that should help reduce the swelling and ease the pain. Short exercise to stretch your calf muscles a few times a day could also be helpful. Flex your feet frequently, especially during long trips when your leg room is limited. If you have to sit or stand in your job, change position at least every 30 minutes and bend knees regularly.

Proper hydration and physical movement supports healthy blood circulation, so drink enough water and move around as frequently as possible. If your legs are in pain at the end of the day, shower them with cold water.

Cool temperatures cause blood vessels to shrink. This should alleviate swelling and the associated feeling of heaviness, as well as overall discomfort and leg cramps. Avoid taking hot baths and spending time in hot tubs. Heat has a negative effect on your veins, and the throbbing pain can become even worse if you spend too much time in hot water. As with many other chronic conditions, prevention is paramount. Wearing special compression hosiery can prevent symptoms such as swelling and heavy legs, allowing you to avoid painful cramps toward the end of the day and at night.

Putting on compression stockings in the morning before you start walking is key to enjoying the benefits.