Varicose veins remain a major vein disease that has both physiological and psychological effects. The large and swollen superficial veins pose threats to your health if not checked. Dennis E Resetarits, MD, a Camillus, NY vascular surgeon, stresses early intervention for varicose veins. Varicose veins can affect anyone; however, some lifestyle and medical factors put you at a higher risk of developing varicose veins.
Risk Factors to Watch Out For:
1. Age
Most people who develop varicose veins develop them between 40 and 80 years of age. It is no surprise that varicose veins are more prevalent amongst the senior population. As you age, your body weakens, including your veins and valves. The weakened valves prevent blood from recirculating to the body and cause pooling which manifests as varicose veins.
2. Gender
While everyone can contract varicose veins, prevalence rates are higher in women than men. The current thinking is that hormone changes during menstruation and menopause weaken the blood vessels. Also, hormonal therapies increase the likelihood of women developing varicose veins. Always ensure you consult your obstetrician or gynecologist to understand whether a specific hormone treatment puts you at risk of developing varicose veins.
3. Inactivity
Prolonged standing or sitting puts pressure on the lower legs, and over time, the prolonged pressure can cause weakened vein walls. Damaged vein walls disrupt normal blood flow. Varicose veins commonly develop on the lower leg due to considerable amounts of pressure on the legs’ veins.
4. Obesity
Excess body weight exerts pressure on veins in the leg. The unsustainable pressure constricts blood flow in the veins, and varicose veins form as a result. Obesity is also associated with low metabolism, which may cause cholesterol buildup in the veins, causing numerous vein diseases including varicose veins.
5. Pregnancy
A growing fetus in your womb exerts additional pressure on the veins of the leg. Increased weight strains the blood valves so that they don’t function normally. Also, as there is hormone fluctuation during the later stages of the pregnancy, the blood vessels weaken. It is no surprise that varicose veins develop in pregnant women during the last trimester when maximum pressure is on the legs.
6. History of Blood Clots
If you have a history of blood clots, you may probably develop varicose veins in the future. Past clots may have damaged your veins; hence, blood pools may develop in your veins when there is blood circulation disruption. If you have a medical history of deep vein thrombosis, then schedule regular checkups for varicose veins.
When to seek treatment
Signs of varicose veins include swollen veins, discolored superficial veins, and tender red patches. If you notice any of these signs, then you should schedule an appointment with a vascular center. The majority of vein diseases progress from primary vein disease. Varicose veins sometimes cause a fatal pulmonary embolism. Early intervention is essential to ensure good health. You should not self-diagnose yourself based on a few symptoms–instead, visit a qualified vascular surgeon.
Where to Seek Treatment
Accurate diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing further complications of varicose veins. Renowned vascular centers offer the best services. Schedule an appointment at Surgical Care East, PLLC, for a correct diagnosis and tailored varicose veins remedies.