Perth's Leading Specialist in the Treatment of Varicose Veins

Dr Luke Matar | MBBS, FRANZCR, FACP

Itchy Legs

Itchy Legs

Itchy Legs And Your Veins

Itchy legs can be a minor discomfort, or they can become a real concern. If you experience itchy legs at night or when walking and notice any visible changes in veins in your legs, then it may be recommended we assess you at The Vein Clinic. Itchy legs can often be connected to a vein problem, and if left untreated this vein condition may cause other, more serious symptoms and health concerns down the track such as pigmentation, swelling and ulceration.

Causes of Itchy Legs

Itchy legs can be caused by other factors, but may be linked to venous reflux. Venous reflux occurs when the valves in your leg veins stop functioning properly. Instead of regulating the blood flow towards the heart, they now cause the blood to pool in your legs because they are “leaky”. This is what may cause heavy, tired or itchy legs.

If you also detect a change in the veins at the surface, on the skin of your legs, then this may be another indication of an underlying vein problem. Varicose or bulging veins will then be a visible sign of venous reflux, and in some cases the condition can cause other, more serious symptoms. These include swelling, spontaneous bleeding, blood clots (venous thrombosis), skin ulcerations and skin thickening or discolouration.

If you have itchy legs and think you may be suffering from venous reflux or varicose veins, contact The Vein Clinic Perth to book an appointment today.

Do Your Legs Look Like This?

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Our Approach to Treatment

Stage 1

Treatment of large malfunctioning veins (trunk)
  • Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLA) to great, small, and/or anterior accessory saphenous veins. 60 minutes

Stage 2

Treatment of large varicose veins (branches)
  • Phlebectomy removal of larger bulging varicose veins 90-120 minutescombined with

  • Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy (UGFS) on smaller veins. 30 minutes

Stage 2

Treatment of small varicose veins (branches) if required
  • Extra sessions of UGFS to close smaller veins if identified as required at post-treatment follow-up scan 30 minutes

  • You may not require this stage.

Stage 3

Optional treatment surface veins (leaves)
  • Usually done by Microsclerotherapy 30 minutes

  • Most patients require multiple treatment sessions to remove spider veins.

Stage 4

Stage 4
Follow up and maintenance to ensure best results
Learn About Our Treatment Process

Take the First Step Towards Healthy Veins

Make an Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the downtime following treatment?

This depends on the type of procedure performed and the severity of the veins being treated. Modern treatment with laser can involve no time off work and approximately two weeks off heavy gym work and four weeks off international travel.

Why do my lower legs feel incredibly itchy, especially at night?

Itchy legs, especially at night, can be caused by various factors which include:
• Dry skin – common during dry weather as the skin lacks moisture
• Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) - LS is a neurological condition causing an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by itching or other uncomfortable sensations, particularly at night.
• Varicose Veins - As discussed below, varicose veins can contribute to itchy legs.

Could itchy legs indicate a problem with varicose veins?

Yes, itchy legs can be a symptom of varicose veins. Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins, usually in the legs. They occur when the valves within the veins that regulate blood flow become weakened or damaged. This can lead to blood pooling in the legs, causing increased pressure and various symptoms, including:
• Itching - The increased pressure and inflammation associated with varicose veins can irritate the skin, leading to itching.
• Leg Heaviness or Aching - Blood pooling can make the legs feel heavy, tired, or achy.
• Swelling- Fluid buildup due to impaired circulation can cause leg and ankle swelling.
• Skin Changes - In severe cases, varicose veins can lead to skin discoloration, thickening, and even ulcers.

Why are my legs incredibly itchy?

Incredibly itchy legs can arise from a variety of causes, ranging from skin disorders to vein issues. It's important to explore all possibilities. If you have a history of vein problems, reach out to Dr. Luke Matar at The Vein Clinic in Perth for expert advice today.

Does venous insufficiency cause itching in my legs when I walk?

Venous Insufficiency is a condition where the veins in the legs struggle to return blood to the heart, and walking can worsen its symptoms, including itching.

What might an itchy rash on my legs signify, and is it related to vein issues?

An itchy rash on the legs could be due to skin conditions like eczema, contact dermatitis, or allergies. However, it might also indicate vein problems if accompanied by other varicose vein symptoms, such as heaviness, swelling, or noticeable veins. Sometimes, chronic venous insufficiency can cause venous stasis dermatitis, leading to an itchy, red, scaly rash on the legs.

What are the treatment options for itchy skin on the legs related to varicose veins?

To treat itchy skin caused by varicose veins, it's important to speak to a professional about treatment options that address the vein problem and manage the itching. Treatment options may include wearing compression stockings to improve circulation and reduce swelling, sclerotherapy, which involves injecting a solution to close varicose veins, and laser therapy for smaller veins, can also be effective. In some cases, surgery might be needed to remove or repair varicose veins.

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Get In Touch

Please send us an email and we’ll be in contact very soon or alternatively, call us on (08) 9200 3450.

If you are unsure of what vein condition you may have,  assess your legs with our online tool.

If you are looking for cosmetic spider vein treatment only, please click here.

 

 

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