Not everyone gets varicose veins, but those who do know first-hand how large and unsightly these veins can be. While varicose veins are most common in the legs, they can also appear in the arms, and this is usually due to the same reasons varicose veins occur in the lower body. Let’s take a closer look at the key reasons why varicose veins can affect your arms, too.
Weakened Veins
It’s a simple fact of life that the natural ageing process causes weakened veins, which increases the risk of varicose veins in arms and legs. A loss of elasticity and years of standing on your feet for most of the day during work make varicose veins more likely, causing potentially painful pressure and cosmetic concerns. Weak varicose veins in your arms may require targeted treatment to avoid persistent pressure in your hands that could interrupt your everyday plans.
Family History
Varicose veins in the arms are linked to family history, so if previous generations have experienced this vein condition, particularly as they aged, then you may too. It’s essential to speak about varicose veins symptoms and any family history with an experienced vein doctor who can take preventative measures for both veins in legs and arms. Simple lifestyle changes could help, such as wearing compression sleeves, eating less salt, and staying hydrated.
Pregnancy Pressure
Varicose veins are a normal part of pregnancy as expectant women carry additional weight in their midsection, and often these veins in legs and arms shrink post-pregnancy. Vein specialists are highly experienced in removing varicose veins from the arms and legs, although not much can be done for varicose veins in pregnancy other than lifestyle changes.
Excess Weight
Varicose veins in arms may appear just from extra weight in general, even if it’s not pregnancy-related. Additional pressure in the abdomen or midsection pushes blood to the arms and legs, increasing blood pressure as it collects in the veins. That’s why vein doctors recommend weight management through a healthy diet and exercise in addition to varicose veins treatments like sclerotherapy and endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) as required.
Hormonal Changes
In addition to pressure from pregnancy or excess weight, hormonal and physical changes to the body through menopause may also lead to noticeable varicose veins symptoms in the arms and legs. If arm veins become swollen and painful to the touch during menopause, sclerotherapy or laser treatment may be recommended by a professional vein clinic.
Best Varicose Veins Treatments for Veins in Arms
If you have unsightly veins in your legs or arms, or your varicose veins symptoms are starting to impact your daily life and self-esteem, Vein Care can help. Our sclerotherapy and laser treatment specialists target veins in arms with impressive accuracy and minimal downtime so you can get back to work the same day.
Call 1300 568 676 or contact us online to book your consultation at a Melbourne vein clinic.