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According to research, varicose veins affect nearly a third of the total population. These are bluish-purple veins that may not be pleasant to look at most of the time. Therefore, people with this condition tend to feel self-conscious, especially in public. Additionally, they are more than just a cosmetic problem. Varicose veins could mean that there is a problem affecting your circulation system. Book an appointment online with Atur Kasha DO for treatment of varicose veins and related issues.
Understanding various factors that increase the risk is essential to prevent the condition and or progression to severe stages. Below are the most common factors:
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Age
You are at a higher risk of developing varicose veins at older ages compared to being younger. This is because as we grow old, our veins become more elastic, meaning that the valves inside begin to function less effectively. In turn, the malfunction results in blood accumulation in pools and, thus, varicose veins. Additionally, older people are more inactive, and most women at these ages are also undergoing menopause.
Pregnancy
The extra weight gained, especially in the last three months of pregnancy, increases the pressure exerted on the lower body organs. This pressure could make the veins beneath become varicose. Oestrogen is also another factor that could contribute to varicose veins during pregnancy. Levels of estrogen hormone usually increase during pregnancy. Luckily, the problem should go away after delivery. Pregnant women are also advised to exercise regularly to reduce these effects.
Obesity
Like in pregnancy, obese people have an excess weight that exerts extra pressure on the body’s lower parts. As a result, veins in the pelvis region and legs could become varicose. Additionally, the hormonal changes that occur in obese people also contribute to obesity.
Gender
Women have higher chances of developing varicose veins compared to men. This is because of the hormonal changes that occur during menopause and the monthly menstruation. Decreasing estrogen levels for women above 45 years reduces the strength of vein walls, making them begin leaking. In turn, regular leakage causes the veins to bulge and makes them varicose.
Inactivity
Regular exercise decreases the risks of becoming overweight and also improves blood circulation. Therefore, becoming too inactive will cause circulation issues or weight increase, which will, in turn, result in varicose veins.
Heredity
You could be at a higher risk of developing varicose veins if there are members of your family who also have varicose veins. The condition could be passed on in the genes from one person to another. According to various studies, about half of the people with this condition had a parent who also had varicose veins.
Smoking
Tobacco smoking is a lifestyle factor that causes circulation problems. Additionally, smoking makes blood vessels narrower, which could make them accumulate more blood and become varicose.
At Desert West Vein & Surgery Center, specialists perform a full physical examination, including past medical history, to determine the source and extent of your problem. They then recommend the best treatment option and advise you on various lifestyle changes. Book an appointment today for customized treatment.
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