Submitted by The Vein Specialists
According to the American College of Phlebology, more than 25 million Americans suffer from some form of venous disease, including varicose and spider veins. Other experts put that number as high as 80 million. The good news is that advancements in the understanding of vein diseases and disorders have led to less invasive, office-based treatments that offer relief to everyone suffering from varicose and spider veins.
Here are 10 things every woman should know about varicose and spider veins.
- Almost half of the people with varicose veins have a family history.
- If both parents had varicose veins, your chances of developing them are close to 90 percent.
- It is estimated that half of the U.S. population over age 50 has varicose veins
- Men have varicose veins, too. About 55 percent of women will develop varicose veins compared to 45 percent of men. However, men are less likely to seek treatment.
- Varicose veins are not just a cosmetic problem. They can cause leg pain, fatigue, swelling, itching, heaviness, restless leg syndrome, and general discomfort
- Untreated varicose veins can lead to health complications including leg ulcers
- Pregnancy can lead to varicose veins because of the increased pressure against the inferior vena cava, the main vein that moves blood from the lower part of the body, and hormonal changes
- Exercise and weight control are the best ways to lessen the severity of varicose veins
- Aging increases your risk for varicose veins
- Sitting with your legs crossed or wearing high heels do not cause varicose veins. But, standing or sitting for long periods can lead to development of varicose veins.
If you think you might have varicose veins, call The Vein Specialists at 309-862-4000 to schedule a consultation with one of our physicians or request an appointment online at www.ILveins.com. We have convenient locations in Bloomington, Eureka, Peru, Springfield, and Streator.