Did you know that 55% of women will suffer from varicose veins during their lifetime? Based on this percentage, women are four times more likely than men to develop these bulging, knotted and often painful leg veins. So, what makes women more prone to varicose veins than men, and how can ladies help prevent them?
Some risk factors for varicose-vein development affect both men and women equally like age, excess weight, genetics and standing or sitting for prolonged periods. With all these factors shared equally, why are women more prone to venous issues? The answer lies in three words: hormones, high heels and hugging clothes.
HORMONES
Hormones fluctuate over a woman’s lifespan. Puberty, birth control pills, pregnancy, menopause and hormone-replacement therapy all have been shown to increase a woman’s risk of developing venous insufficiency. Progesterone, in particular, can relax the vein walls and valves. Unfortunately, this sets the stage for weaker valves that inefficiently pump blood back to the heart, causing blood to pool in the veins.
HEELS
High-heeled shoes alter the natural walking position of the legs and feet. Consistently walking on the balls of the feet restricts the pump action of the calf muscle, hindering healthy blood circulation through the calf. Without the pumping action, blood tends to pool in the veins, increasing the chance of developing varicose veins. We can be relieved to know that occasionally wearing high-heeled shoes isn’t a problem, so enjoy them on those special occasions.
HUGGING CLOTHES
Hugging clothes can impact the development of varicose veins and acerbate ones that already exist. Tight clothing, specifically around the waist, thighs or legs, can compress the veins and restrict blood flow. For those who already have varicose veins, hugging clothes can worsen symptoms like swelling, discomfort and heaviness in the legs.
Given their higher risk of venous issues, women can take some precautions to lessen and possibly prevent varicose veins from forming.
HERE ARE FIVE WAYS TO PROMOTE VEIN HEALTH:
- Stay active and hydrated. Walking, swimming and cycling are all great ways to promote proper blood flow. Drinking plenty of water and eating a healthy diet promote ideal cardiovascular health.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Extra weight puts more pressure on the leg veins, so maintaining a healthy weight can ease the strain on the valves and prevent blood from collecting in the veins.
- Elevate the legs. For 15 to 20 minutes several times daily, elevate your legs above your heart to help encourage upward blood flow.
- Wear compression stockings. These strong, elastic stockings accelerate blood flow to the heart by squeezing the leg veins. This is especially important during times of inactivity like sitting for work or travel.
- Recognize the development of spider veins. Not always just a “cosmetic concern,” spider veins may be a key indicator of a significant vein problem beneath the surface.
It’s important to know that just because varicose veins are common, they are not normal. Women must seek the care of a vein specialist to diagnose and treat their venous insufficiency. Vein specialists can offer tailored treatment plans specifically for your venous issues. So don’t wait! When swelling, fatigue, achiness or visible veins develop, get evaluated, and you’ll quickly be on your way to healthy, beautiful legs!
