Feeling numbness or tingling in the legs can be an uncomfortable sensation that limits the movement and interferes with usual activities. These sensations could be described as loss of feel, tingling or “pins and needles” in the affected area. Symptoms that can be temporary or long-lasting, if they last for too long it could be an indicative of an underlying condition. Chronic numbness or tingling can have many possible causes, some related to injuries, nerves or circulation. At the University Center for Vein Disorders we would like to inform you about the vein-related causes for numbness or tingling in the legs in New Jersey.
Numbness or Tingling in the Legs
Feeling loss of sensation, numbness, tingling or “pins and needles” are the most common ways of describing numbness or tingling in the legs. These sensations can occur after sitting or standing in the same position for long periods of time, because it puts pressure in nerves and blood vessels, something that usually doesn’t last for too long.
Numbness or tingling in the legs can be concerning when they are:
- Sudden.
- Persistent.
- Worsening.
- Causing weakness.
- Or accompanied by other symptoms.
Common Vein-Related Causes
The symptoms that accompany numbness or tingling in the legs may vary depending on the reason for its origin, some more concerning than others. In the case of vein-related causes some examples can be chronic venous insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis or varicose veins.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when veins in your legs are damaged or weakened, preventing them from working as they should. Normally, valves should maintain blood flowing from the legs to the heart, but this condition causes blood to flow backwards and pool in the legs.
Signs and symptoms for this condition can include:
- Tingling and burning.
- Swelling and heaviness.
- Numbness and tingling.
- Pain and cramps.
- Varicose veins.
- Among others.
Read more: Chronic Pain: The importance of Remaining Positive.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Venous thrombosis or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein. This can be caused when veins are damaged or if the blood is not flowing correctly. Blood clots can obstruct blood flow partially or completely, which can be dangerous, since it can result in the veins breaking and causing other health complications. DVT usually happens in the lower legs, thighs or pelvis.
In some cases, people with DVT don’t show any symptoms, for others they are mild enough to not be a cause of concern. Cases of severe deep vein thrombosis can include symptoms such as:
- Pain and tenderness.
- Warm skin in the affected area.
- Swelling in the affected area.
- Red or darkened skin.
- Numbness or tingling.
- Cramping or soreness.
This condition, apart from causing serious discomfort in severe cases, also requires urgent medical attention.
Varicose Veins in the Legs
Varicose veins are a common problem that often occurs when veins are damaged or weakened, causing blood to flow back and pool. They appear as blue or purple twisted veins under the skin. Oftentimes they develop in the legs, feet and ankles, but they can also appear in other parts of the body. While in most cases they are not a major problem, sometimes they can be accompanied by other symptoms, like:
- Persistent pain.
- Numbness or tingling.
- Discolored or darkened skin.
- Inflammation in the affected area.
- Heaviness or fatigue in the legs.
When varicose veins are accompanied by other signs and go untreated, symptoms like swelling can put pressure in your legs. Causing symptoms like numbness or tingling.
Related content: Varicose Veins and Your Legs: Beyond Cosmetic Concerns.
Receive Treatment for Vein Disorders in New Jersey
Feeling persistent discomfort is not something that you have to get used to. If you feel constant numbness or tingling in the legs that doesn’t disappear, seek medical help, these could be warning signs of a venous disease. Ignoring symptoms such as these, especially if they are accompanied by other signs, can lead to health complications.
The team at the University Center for Vein Disorders offers comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for vein-related problems. At our offices in Englewood Cliffs, Somerset, Monroe Township, Freehold, and New Jersey we provide effective treatments tailored to your specific needs. Contact us by calling (732) 873-6868 or request a consultation to start your healing journey and find relief from discomfort.