Spider veins and varicose veins are often considered problems mostly experienced by women. However, these issues are common to men as well. June is Men’s Health Month, a time of raised awareness for men’s health issues. Dr. Ray Workman and Dr. Shawn Fleming encourage men to learn more about the causes of vein disease and the steps men can take to prevent their risk.

What should Winston-Salem, NC men know about vein disease?

In order to better understand how to lower the risk of vein disease, men should first understand its causes. Many forms of vein disease stem from a vein’s inability to effectively transport blood from the extremities to the heart. When a vein functions normally blood is pushed upwards by muscular movement. When a person’s muscles contract, tiny one-way valves in the veins open up, letting blood flow towards the heart. When the same muscles relax, the valves close, keeping blood from flowing downwards and pooling in the veins.

Age, heredity, and lifestyle can all cause damage to these tiny valves. If they are damaged they become much less effective. Blood is allowed to flow backwards, causing pressure that leads to bulging vein problems. Varicose veins are most likely to appear in the legs, although they have been known to happen elsewhere in the body. Spider veins are also most common in the legs, but they can also be found on the face and other areas.

How can men lower their risk of vein disease?

While a man can’t help his age or heredity, he can pursue lifestyle changes that will reduce his likelihood of experiencing vein disease. One of the most effective things he can do is avoid sitting or standing in the same place for extended periods of time. By taking a short break to walk around his home or workspace he can encourage circulation, reducing the risk of blood backflow.

Another step men can take to lower their risk of vein disease is wearing compression stockings. These stockings apply helpful pressure to the veins, giving blood an extra push upwards. Compression stockings are thin and can easily be worn underneath pants, allowing the wearer to use them without letting anyone else know.

Men who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing varicosities than men at a normal weight. This is because carrying excess weight can put damaging pressure on veins. If you are carrying more weight than you should, shedding a few pounds can make a difference in your vein disease risk levels.

Finally, don’t be afraid to seek out the help of a varicose vein doctor if you are already experiencing vein disease. Some men feel too embarrassed to talk to their doctor about vein problems, but doing so is a crucial step in eliminating the disease. Varicose veins lead to a greater risk of complications like ulcers and blood clots and should be taken seriously. Don’t delay or avoid talking with a professional if you need treatment.

Talking with a spider vein center is an important step in treating current vein disease symptoms and lowering your risk for the future. Dr. Workman and Dr. Fleming can provide the information you need to make a good choice on the type treatment you pursue. Get in touch with Novant Health Vein Specialists at 336.245.4890 or schedule an appointment online or to learn more.

The risk of vein disease is much higher than many men believe. Fortunately there are steps all men can take to help lower their risk. Solutions are available to treat vein disease in the present and lower risk in the future.