Submitted by Drs. Bohn, Nielsen, Castillo and Benson, The VEIN Specialists, LLC
You may be surprised to learn that as many as 45 percent of all men experience varicose veins at some point in their lives. The number one cause of varicose veins for men, as for women, is family history. Lifestyle plays a significant role as well for men. If their job requires them to stand for long periods, such as factory work, retail sales, or a medical profession, they are more likely to get varicose veins. If they travel and spend long hours on a plane or driving, or if they sit at a desk for several hours at a time, they are at greater risk as well.
Varicose veins affect men of all ages but the risk increases with age. Generally men have the same symptoms as women: pain, leg heaviness, tiredness, muscle cramps and swelling. More men seem to experience restless legs at night, which can also be a sign of varicose veins.
Varicose veins will continue to progress if not treated. Because varicose veins are often painful, it is important to treat them in order to maintain an active and enjoyable lifestyle. Treatments such as medical grade compression stockings and changes in work habits can improve the symptoms but will not address the underlying cause.
The treatments available for men are the same as for women. Ultrasound-guided endovenous laser ablation, or EVLA, involves inserting a small laser fiber through the skin into the damaged vein. Laser energy causes the vein to collapse and seal shut. Once that vein is closed, the blood reroutes to other healthy veins. Some men may need other treatments, such as sclerotherapy, following EVLA. Most men typically return to work immediately after treatment and resume their normal activities.
Call The VEIN Specialists at 309-862-4000 to get your legs evaluated or visit their website at ilveins.com. They have locations in Bloomington, Eureka, Streator, and Peru.