Link between obesity and varicose veins
Obesity and the factors that lead one to becoming overweight are important topics for Americans to stay informed on. One-third of all adults in the U.S. are obese and a shocking 2.1 billion people worldwide. We can’t change our risk factors like our family history, our metabolism, gender or our age. What we can do, is stay informed on simple ways to stay in shape to avoid the pitfalls of obesity. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is extremely challenging for most obese individuals. However, with the right motivation and a list of different options, avoiding serious health risks is a reality.
The Risks
There are a number of health problems that have been linked to obesity, including but not limited to:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Breathing problems
- Certain cancers
- Varicose Veins
According to the Vascular Disease Foundation, high blood pressure within the leg veins can lead to skin discoloration and leg and ankle ulcers. Obesity and being overweight puts added pressure on veins in the legs, leading to varicose veins. Staying physically active and sustaining low blood pressure are ways to reduce risk of varicose veins, but these goals are difficult for an obese individual.
Take Steps Toward Vein Health
Weight loss may be the first step to take in reducing your chances of developing varicose veins. If unhealthy veins are already present, weight loss will assist with unwanted symptoms, such as; pain, aching, swelling, restless legs and leg fatigue. Begin by adding some physical activity to your everyday life. Movement in the leg muscles assist the valves in vein walls to circulate blood properly. Elevate legs and ankles approximately 6 inches above the heart to reverse blood flow.
Risk of deep vein thrombosis and blood clotting increases with increased weight gain. It can be more difficult to visibly see varicose veins bulging underneath the skin with added fatty tissue. Don’t hesitate to seek treatment if you are experiencing any of the undesirable symptoms to varicose veins. Ask yourself, is my leg swelling worsening after spending time on my feet? Is it difficult for me to fall asleep due to my legs feeling fidgety or restless? Do my legs itch for no apparent reason? If you answered yes to these questions, it’s advised that you speak to a physician. You can call Alpha Vein Clinic 24/7 to set up a consultation and see our physician, Dr. Kaveh.
Near 30% of adults develop varicose veins in their lifetime and for overweight individuals, the chances are higher. Although there are many reasons to transition into a more healthy lifestyle, this is a good reason to start now; especially if you have more than one risk factor contributing to Varicose Veins. Come see us at Alpha Vein Clinic with any questions or concerns about leg pain due to varicose veins or obesity. We are well informed and happy to help.
Alpha Vein Clinic
http://alphaveinclinic.com/
3150 N. Tenaya Way Ste. 400
Las Vegas, NV, 89128
(702) 430 7661
Dr. Sassan Kaveh