Common Causes of Vein Disease

Veins transport oxygen-poor blood back to the heart, while arteries carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. This process is known as circulation or blood flow. Having good circulation helps stabilize body temperature and blood pressure, as well as reduce your risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular and vein disease. When there is a problem with your circulation, your general health suffers.

Common causes of vein disease
Vein disease affects approximately 30 million Americans each year. Several factors can increase your risk of developing vein diseases like chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, spider veins or leg ulcers. Carolina Vein Specialists want to help you understand the common causes of vein disease so you can reduce your risk.

Lack of movement
Those who work in an environment that requires standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time are at a higher risk of developing venous insufficiency. This disorder occurs when blood flows backward and pools within the vein, resulting in varicose veins.

Pregnancy
Pregnant women often get varicose veins as a result of extra pressure on their veins due to added weight and increased blood flowing through their veins. This type of venous disorder may disappear post partum, so it is best to wait at least three months after giving birth before seeking treatment.

Age

The normal wear and tear of aging may cause the valves inside your veins to weaken or become inoperable. When this happens, you are at risk of developing varicose veins along with leg pain and discomfort. Leg pain is not a normal part of aging and should not impact your quality of life. The best way to reduce your risk of venous disease as you age is to eat well, maintain a healthy weight and avoid tobacco products.

Obesity
Increased pressure on your veins caused by excess weight may damage the valves inside your veins that help keep your blood flowing upward, toward the heart. When this happens, you may develop the circulatory disorder known as venous insufficiency, which causes varicose veins.

If you or someone you love is suffering from leg pain or discomfort associated with vein disease, call Carolina Vein Specialists at 336-218-8346 to schedule an initial consultation and take control of your vein health.