Besides being unsightly, varicose veins commonly ache and cause a sensation of tiredness in the legs. However, many people, even some with very large veins, have no pain. The lower part of the leg and ankle may itch, especially if the leg is warm after a person has been wearing socks or stockings. Itching can lead to scratching and can cause redness or a rash, which is often incorrectly attributed to dry skin. The pain is sometimes worse when varicose veins are developing than when they are fully stretched.