As you grow older, your risk of developing varicose veins increases.
While these enlarged, twisted veins are primarily a cosmetic concern, they can often cause discomfort — and, if symptoms related to varicose veins aren’t carefully monitored, their further development may result in other, more serious health concerns.
We’re practicing vein experts in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area. In our years of experience, we’ve helped people of all ages tackle their varicose vein issues and get rid of their problem veins for good.
In this piece, we’re going to discuss the connection between aging and varicose veins, how one can prevent varicose veins from developing with age, and how to get rid of varicose veins forever.
Why Does Aging Increase the Risk of Varicose Veins?
For context, varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that appear visible through the skin, typically on the legs. They generally form as a result of weakened vein walls and malfunctioning vein valves, and while they are usually just a cosmetic concern, those with varicose veins report a variety of symptoms as a result of their presence, such as heaviness and burning in the legs.
There are several reasons why aging can spur the development of, or exacerbate, varicose veins.
First, to put it simply, aging veins are more likely to become less effective veins. Over time, the valves in veins can weaken and give out, causing blood to pool within them and a varicose vein to form.
Next, many people become less active as they grow older. As a sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of varicose vein development, it’s no surprise that many people develop varicose veins as their age increases.
Finally, some people have reported that hormonal changes have affected the development of varicose veins. For example, menopause is associated with a decline in estrogen levels, which affects vascular health — and thus, could lead to the formation of varicose veins.
Can You Prevent Varicose Veins That Come With Age?
While many side effects of aging can’t be prevented, there are many ways to slow down, and hopefully prevent, the development of varicose veins.
To start, one can stay active. Regular physical activity is one of the best ways to improve circulation and reduce the risk of varicose veins. This activity can vary to fit your physical needs and comfort level; for example, you can take up low-impact exercises like swimming, or you can simply try your best to incorporate more walking into your everyday life.
On a related point, one can attempt to maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight puts undue pressure on the legs, which, in turn, can make one more likely to develop varicose veins. Keeping your weight at a healthy level reduces the likelihood that this will occur.
Next, one can do their best to elevate their legs as much as possible. Much like basic exercises, this can simply be incorporated into one’s everyday routine; for example, if you enjoy watching TV on the couch at night, make sure to do so with your legs elevated.
Finally, you can make an effort to avoid prolonged periods of standing or sitting. If your job involves a considerable amount of sitting, take the time to get up and move your body as much as possible. Some patients have found success using a standing desk or walking pad, but that isn’t strictly necessary; instead, you can take a few minutes out of every hour to stand and stretch your legs.
How Do You Get Rid of Varicose Veins for Good?
If you have already developed varicose veins, or are worried about the possibility of developing varicose veins in the future, you should know that the only way to truly get rid of them is through vein treatment.
Thankfully, the process of receiving vein treatment in the modern era is a breeze. Procedures are quick and low-pain, and patients are often able to return to work the same day as their procedure.
There are a variety of treatments available for those with varicose veins. If you’re interested, you can reach out to our vein clinic for a consultation. From there, we’ll tell you exactly what treatments you need to handle your vein issues for good, as well as what you can expect from each treatment.