Veins in Leg Popping Out? Here’s What To Do

Published December 7, 2023

Varicose veins are what we see as expanded or crumpled veins. They can occur in any vein at the skin’s surface. Frequently, they are located in the legs. 

It is why when you see veins in the leg popping out, they are varicose veins. Because of their looks, many also find them concerning. They may make one feel self-conscious and insecure. Yet, more importantly, these so-called spider veins are also swollen. They can cause discomfort and pain. 

If you’re one to struggle with varicose veins, keep on reading. We’ll unravel a rich discussion about them. We’ll go in-depth on what they are, what causes them, and their symptoms. Moreover, we’ll dive in on how to get rid of them naturally and via non-surgical options. Finally, we’ll provide ways to prevent having them. Let’s get started.

What Are Varicose Veins? Spider Veins Explained

Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins. They appear in blue or purple bulges. Any veins that are close to the skin’s surface can be varicose. They are most commonly in the legs. It is due to standing and walking that increases the pressure in the veins of the lower body. 

For many people, mild variations of varicose veins are simply a cosmetic concern. Yet, for others, these veins can cause aching pain and discomfort. Sometimes, they even lead to more severe problems.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins manifest when the walls of your veins weaken. As blood pressure in your vein heightens, the weakened walls permit your vein to get bigger. As your vein stretches, the valves that maintain blood moving in one path in your vein can’t work correctly. Sluggish blood backs up or accumulates in your veins. As a result, a vein that is swollen, bulged, and twisted. 

Vein walls and valves can weaken for several reasons. 

1. Hormones

Female hormones can cause the shell of the veins to stretch. People who are pregnant, on birth control, or going through menopause. These three have a higher chance of varicose veins. They are ones that have changes in hormone levels.

2. The aging process

Because of the natural aging, vein walls and valves don’t function as well as they once did. Veins can lose elasticity. They can stiffen. 

3. Excessive weight 

Excess weight can put pressure on blood vessels. 

4. Restrictive clothing 

Wearing restrictive clothing can decrease blood flow. These are girdles or pants with tight waistbands. 

5. Pressure inside the vein from standing for long periods 

Standing or sitting for an extended time can also decrease circulation. 

Varicose Veins Symptoms

1. Bulging veins 
2. Heavy legs 
3. Itching 
4. Pain 
5. Swelling 
6. Skin discoloration and ulcers 

Varicose Veins in Legs?

Varicose veins in the legs are common. They usually develop on the other half of your body. It is generally in the calves, ankles, and feet. 

How to Get Rid of Varicose Veins Naturally

1. Exercise 

Regular exercise promotes better and healthy blood circulation in the legs. It aids in pushing along the blood stored in the veins. Physical activity also helps decrease a person’s blood pressure. It is another contributing factor to spider veins. 

Low-impact exercises aid in getting the calf muscles working. They do so without excessive strain. 

1. Swimming 
2. Walking 
3. Cycling 
4. Yoga 

2. Compression Stockings 

Compression stockings are available from most pharmacies. These things help by applying pressure to the legs. They aid the muscles and veins to maneuver blood toward the heart. 

A knee-high compression stocking can ease the pain. Also, relieve aching related to varicose veins.

3. Plant extracts 

Horse chestnut extract may help reduce leg pain. It can also reduce heaviness and itching in individuals with chronic venous insufficiency. It is a major cause of varicose veins. 

Sea pine extract can also reduce leg swelling often associated with varicose veins.

4. Dietary changes 

Sodium-rich foods can cause our bodies to retain water. Cutting on salty foods can minimize water retention. Foods high in potassium may assist in lessening water retention. These are: 

• Almonds and pistachio nuts 
• Lentils and white beans 
• Potatoes 
• Leafy vegetables 

Foods with fiber aid in keeping the bowels moving. They aid in preventing constipation. They help as straining can aggravate damaged valves. More so, make them worse. 

• Nuts, seeds, and legumes
• Oats, wheat and flaxseed 
• Whole grain foods 

5. Eat more flavonoids 

Adding foods that have flavonoids may help in shrinking varicose veins. 

Flavonoids better blood circulation. They maintain proper blood flow. They make it less likely to pool in the veins. They also reduce blood pressure in the arteries. Finally, it assists in relaxing blood vessels. 

• Vegetables, including onions, bell peppers, broccoli, spinach 
• Citrus fruits 
• Cocoa
• Garlic

6. Herbal remedies 

As per the National Institute of Health, consuming grape seed extract may help to lessen swelling in the lower legs. 

7. Choose non-restrictive clothing 

Wearing tight-fitting clothes can restrict blood flow. You can find your blood circulation improved by wearing loose-fitting fabrics. They do not limit the blood supply to the lower body. 

It will also help to wear flat shoes. It is as opposed to high heels. Doing so may also help with the varicose veins in the legs.

8. Keep the legs elevated. 

Keeping the legs elevated, ideally at the same height as the heart or above, will support enhanced circulation. It lessens the pressure in the leg veins. Also, gravity aids in helping the blood to flow smoothly back to the heart. 

People should aim to keep their legs elevated when sitting down for an extended period. For instance, during work or rest. 

9. Massage 

Massaging the impacted areas can help keep the blood moving in all the veins. You can opt for delicate massage oils or moisturizers. 

10. Keep moving 

Avoid sitting for long periods. Aim to get up and move around when you’re one to sit for long periods. Avoid sitting with crossed legs. It can further limit blood flow to the legs and feet. 

Non-Surgical Options for Varicose Veins Treatment

1. Laser treatment 

Laser therapy is usually employed on smaller veins. It is a procedure that uses intense laser light aimed at the varicose vein in short bursts. It causes them to disappear. 

2. Sclerotherapy 

It is an injection that closes the varicose veins with foam. It causes them to become less noticeable. It makes them not as visible in your legs. 

3. Endovenous laser therapy 

Lasers or radio waves will put an end to the vein with heat. It will cause it to close. After the vein closes, it will scar over and fade from view. 

How to Prevent Varicose Veins

1. Stay physically active 
2. Maintain a healthy weight 
3. Elevate your legs 
4. Avoid prolonged standing or sitting 
5. Follow a healthy diet