What exactly are varicose veins? For a more in depth look at the definition of varicose veins visit our previous blog post titled “What Are Varicose Veins?” If you have a general idea of what causes these unsightly veins to appear, let’s discuss some of the common misconceptions or facts you may not be aware of:
- Varicose veins are common, very common. It has been suggested that 1 in 3 Americans have a venous disease, which might include spider veins, varicose veins, or chronic venous insufficiency. Four to five million office visits occur related to leg vein problems each year.
- Varicose veins are not just a cosmetic issue. The treatment of varicose and spider veins IS NOT for cosmetic reasons only. Varicose vein disease can eventually cause many health problems including blood clots, venous eczema, skin breakdown, and ulcers. While the unsightly appearance of diseased veins may be the first symptom of complaint, if left untreated more severe symptoms can set in impacting your daily quality of life.
- Varicose veins are all related – to age, gender and DNA that is. Having a parent or sibling with varicose veins significantly increases your chances of developing them. Likewise, the normal wear and tear on your veins can lead to dysfunction, increasing your chance of onset as you age. Hormonal changes in women as well as body changes during pregnancy also put women at a higher risk of developing vein disease than men
- Your job matters, in more ways than one. Of course you should find a career that is pleasing to you in many ways, but did you know the requirements of your job could impact your vein sufficiency? If your occupation requires prolonged periods of sitting or standing, you are putting yourself at risk for developing varicose veins. Teachers, wait staff, and delivery workers are among many of the careers with a high occurrence of venous disease.
- Exercise counts, and not just when counting calories! Simply put, exercise improves circulation in the legs. Exercise helps strengthen muscles in the legs helping to promote the return of blood flow against gravity up the legs to the heart. Exercise also helps maintain proper blood pressure avoiding undue stress on the veins.
There are varying types of vein insufficiency and the severity of your condition will determine the type of treatment needed. To stay up to date on tips for proper venous health, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. The board certified physicians at Premier Vein Clinics are ready to help you love your legs again. Schedule an appointment today.
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