One of the most common misconceptions about varicose veins is that only women get them. Men get varicose veins too. In fact, about 45 percent of men get varicose veins at some point in their lives.
Varicose veins are more common in women because of the hormone progesterone. An increase in this hormone can lead to the development of varicose and spider veins. Both men and women have the hormone, but women produce more progesterone than men.
Aside from an increased level of the hormone progesterone, there are other factors that can increase one’s risk of developing varicose and spider veins.
Risk Factors for Varicose Veins
The following factors can increase your risk:
- Obesity
- Age (the risk increases with age)
- Family history
- Standing or sitting for long periods of time
- Pregnancy
Signs and Symptoms of Varicose Veins
The most obvious signs of varicose veins are enlarged veins that are bluish or purplish in color. The affected veins may also appear twisted or bulging.
Varicose veins may not cause any pain but when they do, they may also come with other symptoms, such as:
- Feeling of heaviness on the legs
- A throbbing sensation on the lower extremities
- Itchiness around the affected site
- Worsening pain after sitting or standing for long periods of time
Seeking Treatment
Contrary to what some men believed, varicose veins can be more than just an aesthetic problem.
The pain and/or discomfort it comes with can greatly affect your quality of life. If self-care or more conservative measures (e.g. wearing compression stockings, leg elevation, exercise) don’t improve your symptoms, then it’s best to see a vein specialist.
Premier Vein Clinic in Knoxville has the only team of board-certified vascular surgeons in the East Tennessee region. They’re expertly trained to diagnose and treat veins and arteries throughout the body. They can access your vein condition and recommend the most suitable treatment option. To request an appointment, call Premier Vein Clinic at (865) 588-8229 or visit https://www.premierveinclinics.com/request-an-appointment/.
Reference:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/syc-20350643