There are a variety of factors that play a role in determining whether or not you will suffer from Varicose Veins. Risk factors that you cannot control include genetics and gender. Fortunately there are lifestyle choices—including your career path—that directly affect your chances of developing venous disease.
Jobs that require prolonged periods of time sitting and/or standing slow the blood flow in your legs and increase your likelihood of developing varicose veins. The four following occupations are considered high risk for venous disease:
Nurses: From interviewing patients to assisting doctors, nurses spend most of their time on their feet. They are also required to work longer-than-average shifts. The combination of extended work hours and standing time leads to an elevated likelihood of developing venous disease at some point in their career.
Office Jobs: Whether you are a web developer, graphic designer, or bookkeeper; if you spend most of your day seated at a desk, your circulation is suffering. Decreased circulation can cause blood to pool in your legs increasing your risk for varicose veins.
Factory Workers: Standing at an assembly line for hours on end puts extra strain on your legs and can cause issues with restless leg syndrome, muscle cramps and the appearance of spider veins and other forms of venous disease.
Flight Attendants: Their sole purpose is to make sure that you are safe and comfortable, and they do their job on their feet. Along with standing for prolonged periods of time, flight attendants have a severely limited work space making fitting in short walks and taking measures to reduce the risk of varicose veins nearly impossible.
If you are currently employed in a position that involves staying seated or on your feet for most of the day, there are a number of ways you can reduce your risk of developing venous disease.
1. Set a timer every hour. When it sounds get up and take a five-minute walk. Do the opposite if you are on your feet all day.
2. Wear compression stockings while you work. They look and feel like tight socks or stockings, promote good circulation, and can help keep blood from pooling and causing varicose veins.
3. Wear good shoes. Avoid wearing heals at work. Instead choose a shoe that gives you extra support and cushion.
4. Exercise regularly to promote good circulation and overall health.
You can learn more about our Varicose Veins on our site or you can contact us for more information on treatment plans.