Varicose veins are often perceived as a female cosmetic concern, rather than a medical issue that can affect anyone. As such, men who develop more prominent, twisted veins and leg pain may simply ignore these symptoms. Yet in the process, they risk complications associated with venous insufficiency, including deep vein thrombosis and blood clots.
Nearly 40 percent of men experience varicose veins but women are more likely to seek treatment. For yourself or to help a loved one, here’s what you should know about the progression of varicose veins in men.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Men develop varicose veins for the same reasons as women. The valves in the leg veins transporting blood back to the heart begin to weaken, often due to aging and lifestyle factors. This pattern causes blood to pool in the veins and fluid to leak out, contributing to more visually prominent veins, swelling in the lower extremities and circulation issues.
Considering this pattern, the symptoms that men experience are also identical to women:
- Twisted or bulging veins in the legs
- A heavy, sore or achy sensation in the legs
- Itchy skin
- Leg cramping
- Swelling around the lower legs and ankles
- Patches of discoloration
- A throbbing sensation in the legs
- Restless legs
Risk Factors for Men
Men are more likely to develop varicose veins in response to:
- Genetics
- Aging
- Obesity
- Sedentary living
- Hormonal shifts
Complications
Potential complications include:
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): If circulation issues affect deeper veins, blood clots may form but unlike surface-level clots, those from DVT risk getting loose, traveling to the lungs and causing a potentially fatal pulmonary embolism.
- Leg Ulcers: Also called venous ulcers, these wounds take longer to heal, are more likely to develop in response to swelling and can become chronic if not treated.
How to Address Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are not strictly a cosmetic issue. You’re advised to seek treatment to lower your risks for complications and identify any contributing factors. After your procedure, we recommend leg elevation and compression stockings to encourage blood circulation.
Learn more about varicose veins, as well as treatments for men by requesting a consultation with the Vein Centers of Connecticut.