Varicose veins have long been thought of to be a health issue that primarily plagues women, particularly older women. But, research shows us that 40% to 45% of men have vein disease and 10% to 15% of men will have visible varicose veins. Unfortunately, men are less likely to address the early signs of venous disease, leaving them more vulnerable.
The Team at St Johns Vein Center cares about our community and want you and the men in your life to know the different types of venous disease and tips for men’s leg vein health.
Types of Venous Disease that Impact Men
Spider Veins: (also known as telangiectasias) are a confluence of dilated blood vessels within the skin that are smaller than 1 millimeter in diameter
Varicose Veins: abnormal vein conditions that occur when the valves within the vein become weak or damaged
Chronic Vein Insufficiency (CVI): medical condition in which the veins are unable to pump enough oxygen-poor blood back to the heart
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): a blood clot that forms in a vein deep in the body, most often in the legs
Pulmonary Embolism (PE): the most serious form of venous disease. PE happens when a blood clot from deep within the body breaks free and travels to the lung
Keeping Men’s Legs Healthy
Avoid long periods of standing or sitting: If you have one of those “on your feet” careers, make sure to follow these tips at work and at home to keep legs healthy.
Quit smoking: Quitting smoking is important. Learn how smoking affects legs.
Exercise: Regular activity and exercise is important for leg health. Even if you have a busy schedule, a brisk 15- 20 minute walk every day will make a difference.
Eat Healthy: Just like good nutrition is important for maintaining a healthy heart, it is also important for maintaining healthy veins, including your leg veins.
Try Compression Socks: Worn by both men and women, compression socks are specialized hosiery designed to help prevent the occurrence of and guard against further progression of venous disorders.
