As we age, the chances of developing varicose veins also increase. This is because the valves of the veins also become weak with our age. The hormonal and physical changes that occur during pregnancy will also increase the risk of varicose veins. Whereas menopause, the other stage of life may also have effects on the health of the veins. Hence it is important to be aware of the relation between menopause and varicose veins. This helps to take proper measures to prevent varicose veins during menopause.
What Happens During Menopause and How It Effects Veins Health?
Menopause is a phase in a woman’s life where a woman will not get her periods for at least 12 months. When a woman gets older, the number of estrogen and progesterone hormones produced by the ovaries get reduced. These hormones are responsible for menstruation, sexual desire, and sperm production. The functioning of the sexual organs also gets affected by the decrease of these hormones.
The hormonal changes during menopause will also affect the health of veins and arteries. This is because the veins become dry without these hormones and they do not function well. As a result, blood gets pooled in the veins, causing varicose veins.
What Can I Do to Reduce the Risk of Varicose Veins During Menopause?
There are several ways that can improve the veins during the menopause phase and reduce the chances of varicose veins. The following are some of the measures:
- Practise regular exercise: Practising regular exercise such as walking can promote the health of your veins. Movement of calf muscles while walking can back up the blood circulation again. You can also practise swimming, yoga, cycling etc. to reduce pressure on the lower legs. If you are unable to walk, practise simple exercises by sitting on a chair.
- Use compression stockings: The use of compression stockings can make the blood flow back to the heart. They can also reduce the signs of varicose veins.
- Follow a healthy diet: Eat food that contains nutrients required for promoting the functioning of your veins. Ginger, rosemary, apples, and avocado contain the required nutrients.
- Hormonal replacement therapy: This therapy can greatly reduce the signs of menopause such as mood swings, sleep issues, and weak veins.
- Regulate your body temperature: If you have night sweats or hot flushes, varicose veins can open up and become severe. The use of sage tablets can help prevent hot flushes and night sweating. Also avoid hot baths as they can cause varicose veins.
- Breathe well: You should breathe deeply as it promotes blood circulation and helps prevent varicose veins.
- Maintain a healthy weight: If you are overweight, it can cause pressure on the walls of the veins and cause varicose veins. Hence maintain a healthy weight by following a proper and healthy diet.
- Keep moving: If your job requires you to sit for a longer duration, you should regularly get up and walk. Set an alarm for one hour and every time the alarm rings, get up and have a brisk walk. This improves the blood circulation in your legs.
The connection between varicose veins and menopause exists and it is proven. Hence it is essential to take proper care and precautions to prevent the risk of developing varicose veins. Several varicose veins treatment options are available to treat it and Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) is the most effective and safe solution.
Looking for Varicose Veins Treatment? Meet Dr Pradyumna Reddy
If you are at the menopause stage and have signs of varicose veins, then Dr Pradyumna Reddy is your right solution. Dr Pradyumna Reddy has been helping patients suffering from varicose veins for several years. He is one of the best interventional radiologists in Hyderabad and is proficient at treating varicose veins. To schedule your consultation, call us today and get a proper solution for your condition.
