Leg-vein disease refers to the varicose and spider veins that form on the legs. Why be concerned about them? Progressed leg-vein disease causes pain, discomfort, swelling, scarring, restlessness, and sometimes-even sores.
There are multiple risk factors for leg-vein disease. Although some risk factors are unavoidable, awareness of some others may help you prevent varicose and spider veins.
Awareness and proactive prevention can help minimize the development and severity of leg-vein disease.
Leg-Vein Disease Risk Factors
Age
Age is an unavoidable risk factor for leg-vein disease. As you get older, you have an increased risk of leg-vein blockage.
Race
While leg-vein disease can affect people of any race, it is most commonly found in Caucasians.
Gender
Around 70 percent of leg-vein disease is seen in women and only about 30 percent is seen in men. This means women are 2 ½ times more likely to contract leg-vein disease.
Family History
You can’t go back in time and change your family history. Just be aware that genetics do affect the legs. Keep on the lookout as you age if your parents or grandparents have suffered from leg-vein disease.
History of Leg Injury
If you have experienced traumas in your legs or ankles you can have a higher risk of vein disease. Common traumas that can increase your chances are surgical incisions, the impact of a ball, or the result of being kicked by a large animal.
Being Overweight or Obese
Overweight conditions and obesity are certainly a risk factor to consider in avoiding leg-vein disease. Obese patients are more difficult to treat and sometimes have a higher risk of varicose and spider veins returning. Some doctors believe the higher abdominal pressure seen in obese patients can interfere with the rising flow of blood through leg veins. Overweight or obese patients also have swelling in their legs, which can put pressure on the lymph vessels and create blockage issues.
Living a Sedentary Lifestyle or Lacking Exercise
One hundred years ago leg vein issues were far less common. Modern lifestyles often include a lot of time spent either standing at work or sitting down at computers or in cars. Because of this, regular exercise is imperative to combat vein issues by keeping your blood flowing properly. If you do spend a large amount of time either sitting or standing, you may not necessarily contract leg-vein disease, but if you’re genetically prone to leg-vein disease or currently have it, a sedentary lifestyle can quicken or upset leg-vein conditions.
Experiencing Multiple Pregnancies
The risk of developing leg-vein disease increases with each pregnancy. While possible leg-vein disease is probably not a deterrent for most people wanting to have children, awareness and other preventative measures (such as exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight) should be considered.
If you have questions regarding the risk factors for leg-vein disease
or would like to make an appointment to see a leg-vein specialist,
contact the Midwest Vein Care office today.