Risk factors for venous disease

Question: My father has bad veins. Am I going to get that as well?

Answer: A recent article in The Journal of Venous Disease discussed this very topic. Venous disease ranges in severity from minor cosmetic concerns to the very severe blood flow changes that result in ulceration or blood clots. In part the article reads:

“The cause of the disease is probably multifactorial. Genetic predisposition, older age, female sex, obesity, number of pregnancies, oral contraceptive use, hormonal replacement therapy, prolonged sitting or standing, low level of physical activity, smoking, prior episodes of blood clots, leg trauma, flat feet, hernia surgery, history of cardiovascular disease, diet, and bowel habits have all been investigated.”

These investigations, however, can be confusing. In our experience with thousands of patients, it is evident that these factors can be present in any combination or not.

And the real question may be, is there anyone on the planet that does not have one or more of these risk factors?

We have no control over our genetics, but certainly we can modify our risks by taking action. The proper action is to seek evaluation as soon as possible. We are currently offering free screening for leg discomfort problems. “Captain Obvious” says that free is better than not free; and that now is better than later.