Men and Varicose Veins
A common misconception in vein disease is that only women suffer from and seek treatment for their varicose veins. At Veins Without Surgery, approximately 50% of our patients are men, and this number is increasing as awareness spreads. We have found that many of our male patients were reluctant to wear shorts while golfing, working out at the gym, at barbecues, etc, prior to seeking treatment with us.
Veins are the vessels that return blood to the heart once it has circulated through the body (as opposed to arteries, which carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body). They have one-way valves that help keep blood flowing in the proper direction. If these valves stop functioning the way they are supposed to, blood can flow backwards and pool in the vein, causing it to stretch.
Varicose veins are swollen, dark blue or purple blood vessels that you can see and feel beneath the skin. They often look like twisted cords, and usually appear on the calves, inside of the legs, and ankles. Varicose veins form when the valves within a vein weaken and allow some blood to flow backward. The vein weakens under the additional strain and balloons outward, raising the skin surface. Vascular anatomy is the same in both men and women, and it is important for men suffering from vein disease to seek out treatment in a timely manner.
Men with varicose veins commonly report developing aching, throbbing, cramping, and other symptoms that may indicate a need for medical attention.
Causes and Risks Factors of Varicose Veins
While varicose veins can affect nearly anyone, men in certain professions are more prone to developing them. Long periods of sitting or standing can cause pooling of blood in the veins. Those men at highest risk tend to work in such fields as:
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This is a short, but certainly not a comprehensive list of professions our male patients are employed in. Our doctors are sensitive to and experienced in helping men with varicose veins.
Dealing With Varicose Veins
There are certain life changes that can be made in order to reduce any discomfort you may have as a result of this condition. Any measures that increase blood flow to the legs can help them look and feel better.
Exercising Regularly
Activities that get your legs moving will benefit both the muscles and veins. Try going for a jog, invite a friend to play tennis or take a bike ride down a nice long trail.
The more often you are being active, the better the prognosis for your legs.
Stretch It Out
Since blood tends to pool in the veins when you are sitting or standing in one position for too long, try to take a break. Stretch your legs out one section at a time to improve circulation all over. If you’ve been sitting for a while, get up and take regular walks around if possible. If you’ve been standing in one place, have a seat for a few minutes or take a little stroll.
Elevating the Legs
When you are sitting or lying down in the comfort of your home, raise those legs up. If they are elevated above heart level, the veins can do their work pumping the blood through them with much less difficulty. You can even tell your wife you have doctor’s orders to stay on the couch with your feet up!
Treatment of Varicose Veins
Many people with venous disease seek cosmetic treatment to reduce the appearance of varicose or spider veins on the legs. Treatment often relieves discomfort associated with the condition such as swelling, fatigue, itching and cramps.
Sometimes, however, more significant problems can develop if veins are left untreated. Clogging of the blood in the veins can result in the formation of a clot that blocks blood flow or breaks free and travels to the heart or lungs, causing severe damage and even death.
To prevent the worsening of your varicose veins and potential complications, make an appointment for a consultation. There are several treatment options available to eliminate or reduce the appearance of veins and relieve any symptoms. Our facility offers the latest endovenous laser treatment that is minimally invasive, non-surgical, and is done in 45 minutes with no scars or stitches.
