Varicose, or swollen, veins are an unsightly condition. These are dilated superficial veins that appear as swollen, cord-like or twisted veins. They can form anywhere in your body, but are most commonly found on legs. Running is actually beneficial for varicose veins, which can cause aching, throbbing or cramping in legs but should not cause significant discomfort. Contact your doctor if your symptoms are severe.
Normal Vein Function
Veins are blood vessels that bring de-oxygenated blood back to your heart. Within the veins are valves that keep the blood from flowing back down your legs toward your feet. When these valves become damaged or weakened, they are no longer able to close properly and blood leaks backward, away from your heart. As blood begins to pool, your veins dilate and become varicose.
Varicose Veins and Running
For many individuals, varicose veins creates no problems other than being unattractive. Others experience symptoms in addition to dilation of the veins such as aching in the legs or ankles, leg cramps, swelling, throbbing or skin discoloration. These symptoms may be exacerbated by standing on your feet or sitting for prolonged periods.
Contrary to popular belief, running is actually beneficial for varicose veins. Dr. Luis Navarro, director of the Vein Treatment Center in New York, notes that running supports healthy blood circulation in legs by promoting blood flow from your legs to your heart. In addition to alleviating these varicose vein symptoms, running can prevent new varicose veins from forming.
What to Do
Varicose veins that do not cause severe symptoms can be managed with lifestyle modifications alone. Wearing compression stockings throughout the day, including when exercising, can help to compress the veins and promote blood flow to your heart. These stockings are available over the counter in drugstores or by prescription from your doctor. Prescription-strength stockings provide more pressure than over-the-counter stockings but must be fitted by a trained professional.
Elevating your legs at night and while resting can also help to minimize symptoms. For those with more severe symptoms, medical treatment may be required, such as surgical removal of the veins, laser treatment and sclerotherapy.
Warning
Varicose veins can lead to serious medical conditions, including ulcers, blood clots and bleeding. Notify your doctor if you have severe symptoms such as veins that are tender to the touch, discoloration or ulceration of the skin on your inner ankle, bleeding of the veins, calf pain, calf swelling or if the appearance of your legs creates psychological distress.
