June is designated as Men’s Health Month. Coinciding with Father’s Day celebrations, it serves to raise awareness about the common types of health issues men often face. In general, men are at a higher risk of developing certain types of illnesses, injuries, and chronic medical conditions, which includes varicose veins. Men are often too busy working and providing for their families to get the medical care they need and may ignore nagging health problems, which allows potentially serious health issues they have to progress. In honor of Men’s Health Month, Advanced Vein Therapy wants you to be aware of the facts. We have outlined some of the biggest threats and steps the men in your life can take to protect their health.
Top Health Issues Men Face
Men often feel pressured to live up to stereotypes that portray them as indestructible ‘tough guys’ who are stoic in the face of illness or pain. Unfortunately, this can cause them to neglect their health, resulting in potentially devastating consequences. On average, men generally die at least five years younger than women and are more likely to suffer certain types of illnesses and chronic health conditions that increase their risks.1 These include:
- Heart disease: This is the number one killer of men in the United States;
- Cancer: Men face an increased risk of all types of cancer, but lung cancer is the most common and deadliest.
- Chronic respiratory disease: Emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can be caused by smoking or by toxic substances that men are often exposed to on their jobs.
- Chronic liver disease: Heavy drinking puts men at higher risk of suffering cirrhosis and liver failure.
- Kidney disease: High blood pressure and diabetes are common chronic conditions among men, increasing their risk for kidney disease.
- Accidental injuries: Injuries suffered on the job, around the home, or while engaged in sports and recreational activities rank as one of the leading causes of death and disability among men.
Men and Varicose Veins
In addition to the above serious and potentially life-threatening conditions, men are also at risk for developing varicose veins. These are those bulging blue, red, or purple lines that appear under the skin, particularly in areas such as the legs and ankles.
Varicose veins occur due to damage in the valves, which regulates blood flow from the heart to various areas throughout the body. Problems with the valves cause the blood to pool below the skin, resulting in the appearance of varicose veins. Factors that can increase men’s risks of developing varicose veins and other venous issues include:
- Being overweight;
- Leading a sedentary lifestyle;
- Standing for long hours on your feet;
- Hereditary issues.
While varicose veins are a common cosmetic concern, causing sufferers to be self-conscious when wearing shorts, bathing suits, or similar attire, they do have the potential to cause some problems. Varicose veins can end up, resulting in a feeling of heaviness, throbbing, itching, and general discomfort.2
Unfortunately, varicose veins are not the only risk men face. They may also develop venous ulcers, which is a type of shallow wound that may occur on the lower legs as a result of poor blood flow. Venous ulcers can be extremely painful and can take long months to heal. At Advanced Vein Therapy, we offer treatment solutions for this and other venous disorders.
Protecting Men’s Health
Early detection, proper diagnosis, and targeted medical treatment are vital in helping to maintain men’s health. One of the simplest ways you can help the men in your life is by encouraging them to undergo regular physicals, to take advantage of screening procedures, and to report any symptoms they do suffer immediately to their doctor.
At Advanced Vein Therapy, we offer safe, highly effective treatments for varicose veins and venous ulceration, which can help improve a man’s appearance and his overall health. In addition to seeking treatment, common ways men can take to protect themselves include the following:3
- Stop smoking and avoid exposure to second-hand smoke;
- Exercise regularly, which may include walking, playing sports, or working out at a gym;
- Maintain a healthy diet and avoid fast food;
- Limit alcohol intake to one or two drinks a day;
- Limit stress through practices such as deep breathing or meditation.
Let Us Help You Today
At Advanced Vein Therapy, we encourage men to take the steps needed to protect their health and overall wellbeing. This includes seeking treatment for varicose veins and other venous diseases. Call or contact our Boise office online to schedule a consultation today.