If you’re like most men, you assume that varicose veins are a women’s issue, for old people in compression hose, or are otherwise a non-issue to you. But you should be concerned about varicose veins for a couple of reasons: one, because about 50% of men will have bulging leg veins at some point in life; and, two, because varicose veins can be much more than a cosmetic problem. In fact as vein care specialists, we know that advanced cases of varicose veins are known to cause leg pain, swelling, bleeding ulcers, and varying degrees of debilitation.
Why do Long Island men get varicose veins?
According to varicose and spider vein experts in Long Island, men who have a family history of vein disease have a doubled risk for developing varicose veins. That risk also rises with age, obesity, and various lifestyle factors such as inactivity, smoking, and injury.
Precautions for men to prevent varicose veins:
- Exercise regularly. Get at least 30 minutes of exercise 5 days per week.
- Move around throughout the day. Sitting or standing in one position can cause your blood to pool.
- Wear compression stockings. These elastic socks promote circulation, and, although traditionally unattractive, they now come in an array of styles, patterns and colors through specialty stores.
- Watch what you eat. Eat a low-sodium, moderate fat diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables.
If you already have varicose veins, there are plenty of options available at a vein treatment center in Long Island. Quick, minimally invasive, and painless outpatient laser or radiofrequency surgeries can eliminate varicose veins by sealing off the vein itself. For less severe cases, your vein care specialist in Long Island may recommend sclerotherapy, which is a medicinal injection that closes off the diseased vein.
For more information about varicose veins, treatments options, or to schedule an appointment, call us at 516-821-0242 or go online to see Dr. Rochman. You’ll be glad you did!