Tired, heavy legs: causes and treatment
Why compression stockings are better than most people think
Tired, heavy legs can often be attributed to weak veins. Find out in this article what to do if your assumption is confirmed. We will also explain the benefits of compression garments as part of vein therapy and clear up the most common misconceptions when it comes to compression stockings.
Why vein problems are a very common condition
Tired legs, swollen ankles, or spider veins (small veins in the shape of a web or fan that are quite visible under the skin) are often the first indication of weak veins. Among young people in particular, the subject of vein problems and their consequences are not usually discussed, even though they are increasingly affected by the risk of venous disorders: according to the German Society for Vascular Medicine, more than 30 million Germans suffer from mild vein problems, with varicose veins (blue, knotted tortuosities or clusters of skin veins) on the legs occurring most often.
Work with little physical activity that mainly involves standing or sitting, as well as little exercise during leisure time increase the risk of getting weak veins. In addition to advancing age, other risk factors of vein problems include obesity and a hereditary predisposition. Women are more frequently affected by chronic venous disorders than men, which may be attributed to hormonal changes, for example during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.
Signs of vein problems: Taking tired, heavy legs seriously
Vein problems are rarely diagnosed among young people in particular, because most of those affected don’t see a reason to visit a physician if they suffer from heavy legs, even though this can be a first sign of a serious vein weakness that will progress over time. If the first signs aren’t ignored, symptoms can be alleviated and future health risks from progressing vein weakness reduced. In the beginning, those affected mainly suffer from tired legs, with the sensation of heaviness increasing over the course of the day or after long periods of standing or sitting. Others describe their symptoms as tingling, itching, or temporary pain. Add to that frequently swollen ankles so that the edge of socks leave deep imprints at the end of the day.
Diagnosis and treatment: what to do about heavy legs?
If you notice one or more of the above signs, you should definitely discuss this with a physician and have your legs thoroughly examined. Please don’t self-diagnose or carry out your own treatment.
The diagnosis of a venous disorder means it’s highly likely that you will be prescribed compression stockings, such as our VenoTrain micro. They will help with tired, heavy legs if they’re worn regularly.
Measuring indications for potential vein problems. The quick, non-invasive and pain-free examination can provide information about the functioning of your venous valves by measuring the refill time
of the veins in the calf area. This measurement can on no account replace a physician’s diagnosis. Subsequently, your physician will create an individual treatment plan with you if you have weak veins. In addition to compression garments, targeted exercises, for example, can help to improve your vein health and alleviate pain
“Do I really need compression stockings?”
Unfortunately, compression stockings often have a negative image, among young people in particular. Many of those affected don’t feel comfortable at the thought of having to wear the stockings day in and day out. That’s why we believe it’s time to clear up some common misconceptions and fill potential gaps in knowledge. Astrid Basson, Senior Product Manager for Phlebology, makes some excellent points for all those still in doubtt.
