Could varicose veins affect your career options?
A candidate who applied to join the Army in India has been turned down because they suffer varicose veins. Despite undergoing surgery to eliminate the condition, a court has ruled the patient isn’t fit to join the military due to the symptoms varicose veins produce.
For many, varicose veins are viewed solely as a cosmetic condition and it doesn’t cross their mind it could impact their career choices. So, can having varicose veins really affect your job? Here, we’ll look at how venous disease can impact your career options.
Which careers could varicose veins pose a challenge?
Although varicose veins won’t necessarily affect your chances of getting into the military, as the recent case highlights, there are some careers which can be more challenging for those suffering from this condition.
Any career which requires you to keep the legs in one place for long periods poses a risk of varicose veins. So, office workers, hairdressers, retail workers, pilots and security guards, for example, are considered to be at higher risk of developing varicose veins.
How could varicose veins affect your job?
If you do have varicose veins, there is a possibility they could impact your career if it worsens the symptoms associated with varicose veins.
- Prolonged periods of standing or walking: for workers who are standing or walking for at least 75% of their time, such as those working in retail or hospitality, or as a hair stylist or security guard, this can pose a serious risk.
- Limited physical activity or prolonged periods of sitting: we should do everything in moderation, so just as prolonged standing can cause problems, so can sitting for long periods of time as it affects blood circulation. Keeping your legs crossed can make it worse.
- Heavy lifting: this can increase venous reflux and worsen varicose veins so always use the proper technique whether you’re a personal trainer or factory worker.
- Low air pressure: not just affecting pilots or cabin crew, this can also be a problem for those who have to fly frequently for their jobs. The pressure in the cabin reduces the amount of oxygen absorbed by the blood, often causing swelling in the legs and feet.
The importance of seeking treatment
Thanks to the huge range of varicose vein treatments available, the condition doesn’t need to affect your career. Whether you’re suffering from mild or severe varicose veins, there’s a treatment to fit you.
Seeking treatment for varicose veins is essential, even if it doesn’t impact your job. When left alone, the condition is only likely to become worse and can lead to more severe health consequences.
If you’d like to seek varicose vein treatment, book a consultation with our vein experts today.