Varicose veins are not always a cosmetic issue. Left untreated, they can lead to blood clots, ulcers, infections and heaviness in the legs that hinders daily activities. Venous Disease is a condition that affects both men and women, although women are much more likely to seek treatment. This delay in care can pose a problem for men who tend to wait until symptoms are much more severe.
As many as 45 percent of men suffer from varicose veins; however, they often do not speak to a physician until they are experiencing significant symptoms. Symptoms may include aching or burning sensations in the legs, swollen or rope-like leg veins, leg heaviness, itchiness and changes in skin texture or color. Early identification and treatment can improve quality of life and relieve symptoms. Varicose veins can affect men of all ages, but the risks increase with age because of the loss of tissue, tone and muscle mass, as well as weakening of the venous walls.
Similar to men, approximately 55 percent of women suffer from some type of vein disorder. One of the top factors influencing the risks of Venous Disease in women is hormonal fluctuations which happen during pregnancy and menopause. These fluctuations have been proven to cause venous insufficiency, a leading cause of varicose veins. In severe cases, blood can leak back into the surrounding tissue, causing discoloration, sores and ulcers. Following multiple pregnancies, women are more vulnerable to the development of varicose veins and other vein conditions.
For both men and women, the risk factors for developing Venous Disease may include:
- Diabetes
- Heredity
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Prolonged Sitting or Standing
- Lack of exercise
Three Easy Steps to Healthier Legs
- Free Vein Screenings can be performed in about 10 minutes by a Board Certified Cardiologist and Vein Specialist to determine your best treatment options. With a qualified diagnosis, treatment plans and procedures are often covered by health insurance, including Medicare.
- Doppler Ultrasound is a safe and painless outpatient procedure that produces pictures of the inside of the vein system using sound waves. These images can help the physician to see and evaluate blockages to blood flow such as clots, valve failure or narrowing of vessels.
- Medical Grade Compression Stockings help reduce leg swelling and other painful symptoms by steadily squeezing the legs, helping veins and leg muscles move blood back to the heart. It’s important to be measured by a medical professional familiar with compression stockings to ensure a safe and proper fit. FBN
Effective methods for the treatment of venous disorders are readily available. Screenings are performed by Board Certified Interventional Cardiologist and Vein Specialist Dr. Robert Wolyn, who can provide a diagnosis to correctly assess conditions and take appropriate therapeutic measures.
Mountain Heart Vein Clinics offer free vein screenings throughout northern Arizona. Call 888-454-1748 to schedule your free screening or visit www.mountainheartcares.com for more information.
Dr. Robert Wolyn, Vein Specialist, Board Certified Interventional Cardiologist