Varicose and spider veins affect about 30 million adults in the United States, resulting in over $1 billion in direct healthcare expenses annually. Sadly, these figures are rising rapidly. There are numerous causes of varicose veins, some of which are modifiable and others that are not. At Tallahassee Vein & Face Clinic, Dr. Charles W. Kent is highly skilled in various vascular concerns. Dr. Kent will work with you to examine your concerns and provide the most appropriate care solutions. Nonetheless, understanding the common risk factors for spider and varicose veins can help prevent these concerns from developing or worsening after you’ve done varicose vein surgery lakewood ca.
Genetics
Your genetic makeup mostly determines varicose vein development. While about 30 genes are believed to contribute to one acquiring spider and varicose veins, the strongest relationship is between a gene that affects blood pressure. If your parent, sibling, or close relative has developed vascular concerns, you are also likely to develop them as well.
Age
As you grow older, you become more susceptible to spider or varicose veins. Typically, around 30% of women and 15% of males develop these conditions, but past 70 years, the prevalence raises to 77 and 57% for women and men, respectively.
Age reduces the gender disparity in spider and varicose veins while increasing the risk for abdominal varicosities. Women who undergo hormone replacement treatment could be more vulnerable because estrogen causes the blood vessel walls to be more expandable, resulting in blood reflux and vein distension.
Standing Occupations
Occupations that demand long-standing hours, such as security work, assembly-line workers, and salespeople, are highly likely to cause varicose or spider veins. Standing still raises vein pressure and diminishes the pumping effects of calf muscles that help return blood flow and decrease blood pooling in one’s legs. Interestingly, an occupation that requires extensive walking could be less prone to varicose or spider veins because walking stimulates the calf muscle pumping to avoid blood accumulation.
Gender
According to most research, women are more susceptible to spider and varicose veins than males. Some professions believe these results might be inaccurate since more women often participate in varicose vein research. This gap is believed to be because of greater concern among women regarding the aesthetic effects or increased awareness of the issue. Nonetheless, men are more likely than women to develop severe cases of varicose veins, and this is true regardless of age.
Nutrition and Diet
Typical low-fiber diets in the United States result in persistent constipation. Straining to defecate raises abdominal pressure, which, when repeated, can cause vein dilatation. Besides, the bowel can expand, putting pressure on the abdominal veins and limiting blood flow. As such, constipation greatly raises the risk of abdominal varicosities. Western diets are also often deficient in vitamin E, which increases the danger of blood clotting and blood vessel wall alterations that could induce spider and varicose veins.
Obesity
A body mass index (BMI) of over 20 nearly triples the likelihood of developing varicose veins. High abdominal pressure, typical in obese persons, returns blood flow from your legs, resulting in increased vein pressure. Moreover, obesity is often associated with sedentary living, resulting in reduced calf muscle contraction, which helps pump blood from the lower limbs to the heart.
Spider and varicose veins are not only unsightly but could also be a significant health risk. If left untreated, these conditions could lead to increased swelling and pain. If you want to discuss your concerns, and explore your care options, schedule a consultation with a vein specialist today. Call the Tallahassee, FL office or request online today.
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