Varicose veins are veins that have become twisted and enlarged. Most individuals develop varicose veins in their legs, though it's possible for any superficial vein to develop this condition. The reason the legs are affected so commonly is walking upright and standing causes increased pressure on an individual's lower body's veins. Many patients don't experience health-related symptoms due to their varicose veins, and the condition is just a cosmetic worry. But others have discomfort and aching pain due to the veins. Varicose veins can cause more serious problems to develop, and these can be life-threatening in rare cases.
Standing For Long Periods
Standing for long periods increases an individual's risk of developing varicose veins. To a lesser extent, sitting in the same position for hours also increases this risk. Sitting has a lower risk than standing because the pressure on the legs isn't as great. When individuals stay in the same position for a long time, their blood doesn't circulate as efficiently. Decreased blood flow can cause blood to pool in the legs instead of moving back to the heart, which can, in turn, cause vein enlargement.
If individuals have an office job, they should stretch regularly, shift positions in their chair, and get up and walk around every hour or so. If an individual's job requires long periods of standing, such as being a cashier, it can be helpful if they walk around and move their body. Even shifting weight from foot to foot can help. Individuals who stand for a long time every day might also benefit from compression socks, which improve circulation and keep blood from pooling in the legs.