Varicose Veins and Pred

[Thelmarina]

Hi, I just wondered if anyone else has had trouble with varicose veins and whether or not we think Pred may have something to do with it. Or is it that I am old?! So easy to blame Pred for everything but can’t help wondering 😀

[PMRpro Ambassador]

There is felt to be a link between topical corticosteroids and varicose veins developing but I can't find any link with oral corticosteroids. There may be an effect on connective tissue that contibutes to the degree of the veins developing. However - I've been on pred for well over 11 years and have no sign of varicose veins at all. My husband, on the other hand, has dreadful veins and has never taken pred ...

[Thelmarina in reply to PMRpro]

You never fail. Thanks very much 👍🏻

[SnazzyD]

My leg veins deteriorated rapidly within a few months of high dose and though improved have not recovered to their former state. I routinely wear class 1 knee high compression socks. The most noticeably affected veins are in the thighs.

[Thelmarina in reply to SnazzyD]

Thanks Snazzy. I have a lovely setvon my calf that flared up and created clots. The GP said they were superficial and would die down which they have a bit. The first time ever so all knew to me! But the pain now seems to be spreading up my inside knee and thigh - tender but no visible veins so presenting differently. Such a lot to learn at such an advanced stage of life. 🤣

[SnazzyD in reply to Thelmarina]

What makes you think the thigh pain is veins rather than muscle?

[Thelmarina in reply to SnazzyD]

I don't know! False assumption? It kind of felt as if it was a logical pathway. Doh! You could be right. I have been stepping up the yoga a bit...x

[SnazzyD in reply to Thelmarina]

Have you tried tracing the pain up the thigh? What does it feel like under your fingers? Is it a straight line? Do certain movements or positions aggravate it? Is it exactly the same on the other leg?

[Thelmarina in reply to SnazzyD]

Good idea, you make sense. I think I let my assumptions run away with me! Thanks I’ll test it out tomorrow. 👍😀

[Suffererc]

I have chronic veins on my ankles and feet. Made worse by the pred. Think I read somewhere Pred makes the veins stand out

[Thelmarina]

Thanks Sufferec. Pretty! 😅