Ankle vein causing pain. How worried should I be?

Question

I have a vein on the outside of my ankle bone its horizontal straight and has been bulging off and on with a sharp stabbing pain I'm not sure how worried I should be about it

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Laser therapy has evolved to address small and medium sized abnormal veins. In fact, endovenous laser therapy is useful for the management of varicose-vein associated venous insufficiency. Sclerotherapy using foam sclerosants are ideal for the treatment of minimally-refluxing varicosities and reticular veins. In our office, we combine these less-invasive modalities with microphlebectomy and vein surgery in order to minimize scarring and remove unsightly varicosities.

Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Andres Zavala, DO · Answer

Veins that bulge slightly at the ankle are not uncommon since the underlying bone makes them more prominent. If it is causing you pain or its cosmetically unpleasing then it can be treated by either sclerotheapy or phlebectomy (removal through micro-incisions).  I would however suggest a venous ultrasound first to rule out underlying venous insufficiency as this would likely lead to new varicose veins over time and may need treatment to minimize symptom progression and formation of many varicose veins.

Michael Nguyen, MD · Answer

I encourage you to schedule an evaluation and ultrasound imaging of your legs with a vein specialist. This first step is very important to determine if an underlying venous disease called venous reflux is causing the appearance of your painful vein. Then, specialist can determine your treatment plan correctly. Painful veins are sign of an underlying disease that can be treated medically in our facility. 
All the best!

John Landi, MD · Answer

What you describe is a common localtion for a vein.  It is usually not a serious problem.  A picture would help.  The treatment options would be sclerotherapy or removal through microincisions or leave alone.

Scott Powell, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

A large vein on the ankle can be common.  It isn't a serious issue, outside of causing you pain.  Typically, these will not go away on their own, but can be treated with sclerotherapy.  They can also be a sign of underlying venous reflux.  If you have other symptoms such as swelling, fatigue or heaviness of the legs, cramps, or restless leg syndrome, then I would suggest an ultrasound doppler of the legs by an experienced vein surgeon.Good luck to you,Dr. Powell

Ankle vein causing pain. How worried should I be?

Answers (5)

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