Are My Varicose Veins Causing Leg Cramps?

Leg cramps are a common symptom of varicose veins. These sudden involuntary muscle contractions can occur for a few seconds or even last a couple of minutes and can be quite painful. Some patients suffer with them during their working day or others in the nighttime when in bed.

One reason for cramps occurring for people with varicose veins is because the valves inside the veins are incompetent, which allows blood to pool in the leg rather than circulating as it should. The excess blood causes the vein to become enlarged, putting pressure on the nerves and muscles in your legs. This resulting swelling can cause inflammation which triggers spasms or cramps.

Fortunately, treatment of varicose veins is often very successful in stopping the return of cramps or restless legs. If treatment is not an option, there are other things you can do to reduce the severity and occurrence by elevating your legs and avoiding prolonged standing and sitting during the day. Regular exercise such as swimming, walking, cycling or yoga is encouraged as it can help strengthen and stretch your out your leg muscles helping pump blood back to the heart.