| Pebble UK - Graduated Compression Support Hosiery Specialists for both Men & Women - Risk & Prevention |
Risk factors So what are the risk factors that cause DVT & Varicose Veins?
- Lack of exercise
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Menopause
- Using Oral Contraception
- Standing or sitting motionless for long periods of time, thus, the elderly and disabled will be more at risk
Unfortunately, varicose veins are also caused by genetics and gravity and although we cannot escape from one's hereditary predisposition, it is possible to stave off the effects from both factors. |
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| Prevention So what can be done to help soothe aching legs or prevent varicose veins and further problems?
- Wear compression hosiery
- Try not to cross legs when sitting
- Take regular exercise, even walking is a good form of exercise for your lower limbs; it will improve leg and vein strength. When sitting, rotate the ankles and bend and flex the feet and toes
- Eat a well balanced diet; it is worth noting that constipation contributes to varicosities. Also cut salt intake as this will prevent swelling
- Try to keep within your corresponding weight/height boundaries
- Try to avoid standing for long periods of time, if your job requires this then make sure you shift your weight from one leg to another regularly
- Don't wear tight clothes or under garments that constrict blood flow to your waist, groin or legs.
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| Remember prevention is better than cure People with peripheral vascular or arterial disease should not wear compression hosiery and diabetics should always consult their doctor. If you have any kind of medical condition and are not sure if you can wear compression hosiery, always talk to your doctor first. |
| Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Can be caused by severe varicose veins and characterised by an increase in venous pressure whilst walking.
Symptoms - Pain, swelling of the leg, pigmentation in the ankle area, indurations of skin (and in severe cases skin breakdown with obvious ulcers). |
| Varicose Veins
Caused by failure or incompetence of the valves within the veins. This will cause the blood to flow back down towards the feet (from gravity), instead of flowing back up to the heart.
Symptoms - Aching, tiredness and feeling of heaviness in the leg. |
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| Mayo Clinic Health Tips How to help prevent blood clots when travelling:
Sitting for long periods when travelling - especially on airplane flights - can cause swollen ankles and calves. This inactivity also increases your risk for the formation of blood clots in the veins of your legs. Blood clots can be serious if a clot breaks loose, travels to a lung and lodges in an artery (pulmonary embolism). Signs and symptoms of a clot in your leg may include sudden swelling, possibly accompanied by pain and discoloration.
How to help prevent a blood clot from developing:
Wear Support Stockings - They compress your legs to aid circulation and fluid (see related articles)
Move About - Take a walk through the airplane cabin or down the bus aisle once every hour or so. If travelling by car, stop occasionally and walk around for a few minutes.
Stretch Your Legs - Frequently flex your ankles or press your feet against the seat in front of you. This promotes circulation.
Avoid Alcohol - Alcohol promotes dehydration, which can further increase your risk for a blood clot. |
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