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Ten Things Every Woman Should Know About Varicose Veins

Originally posted in Healthy Cells Magazine.



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/or spider veins. 


Here are 10 things every woman should know about varicose and spider veins.

  1. Almost half of the people with varicose veins have a family history.
  2. If both parents had varicose veins, your chances of developing them are close to 90 percent.
  3. It is estimated that half of the U.S. population over age 50 has varicose veins.
  4. 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.
  5. Varicose veins are not just a cosmetic problem. They can cause leg pain, fatigue, swelling, itching, heaviness, restless leg syndrome and general discomfort. 
  6. Untreated varicose veins can lead to health complications including leg ulcers.
  7. Pregnancy can lead to varicose veins because of hormonal changes and the increased pressure against the inferior vena cava, the main vein that moves blood from the lower part of the body.
  8. Exercise and weight control are the best ways to lessen the severity of varicose veins.
  9. Aging increases your risk for varicose veins. 
  10. 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’re currently suffering from varicose veins, or think you might have varicose veins due to  swelling or aching in your legs, call The Vein Specialists at (309) 862-4000 to schedule an appointment with one of their doctors to discuss your treatment options and preventative measures. They have convenient locations at 3302 Gerig Drive in Bloomington or 2011 Rock Street, Suite D2 in Peru.

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