If you know someone with varicose veins, you are probably aware that they are more than just a cosmetic problem. They cause itching, feeling of heaviness, and even cramping.
Who are at risk?
Anyone can develop varicose veins, but they are more common in women and those who tend to sit or stand for prolonged periods of time.
Sitting or standing for long periods of time can cause the veins to overwork, causing blood to pool into the leg veins. This pooling of blood adds pressure to the veins and eventually, weakens the valves.
Women and men in the following industries are at higher risk for developing varicose veins:
Administrative
Those who work in a busy office, working for long hours in a day, are at risk. These people may sit for hours on end, even opting to have their lunch or breaks on their desks.
Transportation
Other jobs that often entail long hours of sitting such as bus, truck, and taxi drivers are also at risk for varicose veins
Education
Teachers and professors can spend hours standing in their classrooms. Not to mention, they also spend a good amount of time behind their desk, creating lesson plans, grading papers, etc., making them more prone to developing varicose veins.
Beauty
Research shows that hairdressers over the age of 45 and who work for over 10 hours a day are at a higher risk of having varicose veins compared to co-workers who are younger and work on the same amount of hours.
Hospitality, Retail, and Medical
Similar jobs that require workers to be on their feet for long periods of time include hotel workers, retail employees, and medical workers especially ward nurses.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Varicose Veins in the Workplace
If your job requires you to sit or stand for long periods of time, try to get mini-breaks just to move your body, avoiding being in the same position for hours.
You can also significantly cut back your risk by maintaining a healthy weight and quitting smoking (if you’re a smoker).
Wearing supportive, low-heeled shoes and compression stockings can be highly beneficial especially if you’re working through long shifts.
Not sure if you have varicose veins? You can take our FREE self-assessment. You may also request an appointment online with one of Premier Vein Clinic’s vein specialists or call us at (865) 588-8229. Premier Vein Clinic in Knoxville is the only Vein Center in East Tennessee staff with a team of certified Vascular Surgeons and certified Vascular Ultrasound Technologists.
Reference:
https://www.azuravascularcare.com/infoveins/how-your-job-puts-you-at-risk-for-varicose-veins/