Is It Too Early…. ?

Editors Note: This article was a collaboration between myself and one of our collegiate writers, Kaitlyn. – Molly

 

Is it ever too early to worry about vein health? As a college student, my editor Molly made me aware that wearing heels and other things we do as college students can be really bad for our legs. Thanks to Dr. Kenneth Harper for answering these questions about vein health!

 

Southern Bon Vivant: Is there an ideal age to start worrying about vein health?

 

Dr. Harper: One of our goals at Vein Specialists of the South is for everyone to enjoy “healthy veins for life”. It is never too early to learn what you can do to promote a healthy vein lifestyle.

 

SBV: What can college students do to combat later problems with vein health?

 

Dr. Harper: I would encourage everyone to understand their risks for developing vein disease and what they can do to lower those risks. Common risk factors for vein disease include: a family history of varicose veins, spider veins or blood clots, pregnancy, and at risk occupations where you sit or stand a lot. Our “Healthy Veins for Life” principles can decrease your chances of having vein disease. The younger the age when you adopt these principles the better. These principles include: regular exercise, healthy weight management, elevation of your legs when you sit or take a break, wearing graduated compression socks when you are at working or traveling and avoiding high heels except for special occasions.

 

SBV: I love high heels and I’m not giving them up.

 

Dr. Harper: I understand why you love your heels and the way they make you feel and look. This is an area where maybe we can come to a reasonable compromise. It becomes more of an issue if you already are noticing spider veins, bulging varicose veins leg swelling at the end of the day or suffer with tired achy legs at the end of a long day.

 

SBV: And I don’t like wearing hosiery, what do you have to say to me?

 

Dr. Harper: Well maybe you have not seen the styles that are available today. Compression socks or hose come in many colors and styles. They are not your Mom’s hose! Come by the VBS office and let us show you what is available. Our patients and staff love their hose and I think you will, too. There are styles for going to the gym or for a run, working and a night out on the town.

Editor’s note: This is true! I’ve worn mine many times and they are surprisingly comfortable and my legs even feel better after wearing them. – Molly

 

SBV: Ok, I’m sold. What can I do to make sure I don’t have varicose veins?

 

Dr. Harper: I wish I had a magic wand to make sure you never have varicose or spider veins. Unfortunately, there is no magic wand. However, at VSS you have a team ready to help you and encourage you. So lower your risks by following the ” Healthy Veins for Life” principles and at the first sign of a problem make an appointment with us to learn how we can help you.

 

SBV: Ok- so I still want to wear my heels. Around what age can I anticipate having varicose veins?

 

Dr. Harper: Just because you wear your heels does not necessarily mean you will develop varicose or spider veins. However, if you are at risk they will hasten a problem with your veins. Most vein disease has it’s onset in the childbearing years. As your number of pregnancies and age increases, vein problems become more noticeable and symptomatic. The sooner you have an evaluation and seek care the better for your legs and your veins.

 

SBV: Aside from looking bad, can varicose veins really be THAT bad for me?

 

Dr. Harper: Yes, vein problems are much more than just a cosmetic concern. Vein disease is chronic and progressive and without preventative measures and treatment they will get worse. Vein disease can lead to problem with quality of life and ability to perform your regular daily activities like working, caring for and enjoying your family. Early on many patients are only concerned with the way their legs look and avoid wearing shorts, dresses or swim suits. As the condition worsens there can be the onset of symptoms: pain, tired achy legs, burning and itching, leg cramps and restless legs. Visible changes can include: swelling, skin changes and ulcers, and blood clots.

 

 

Welp. We’re sold. So no matter what your age is, you need to take care of your legs. Be careful about over doing it on the heels. And just be smart in general.

 

Editor’s Note: Honestly, I don’t wear heels as much as I used to…. and flats are getting cuter and cuter these days! – Molly