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Body shaping costumes – a surprising cause of varicose veins?

How body shaping costumes can cause varicose veinsIn recent years, body shaping costumes have really taken over the women’s fashion industry. From tight-fitting waist clinchers to sexy holiday themed body-shaping costumes; women are loving this latest trend that guarantees a beautiful hourglass figure.

However, what they don’t realise is that these sexy, figure-hugging body shapers can lead to some pretty serious health complaints if worn on a regular basis. One such issue that can occasionally develop is varicose veins.

The link between body shaping and varicose veins

So how exactly could body shaping costumes lead to varicose veins? It’s all to do with cutting off adequate circulation.

In terms of varicose veins, it is thigh compression sleeves which present the biggest problem. Cutting blood flow back from the legs, it not only increases the risk of varicose veins, but can also worsen the condition if you already have them.

So, if you regularly wear thigh compression garments, your risk of suffering from varicose veins increases dramatically.

The importance of adequate circulation

While body shaping costumes aren’t one of the major causes of varicose veins, they do highlight the importance of adequate blood circulation.

The majority of causes of the condition, all relate to a problem with blood circulation in the legs. If you remain in the same position, whether it be sitting or standing for long periods of time, that too can lead to circulation issues which contribute towards varicose veins.

When the circulation is compromised, it adds pressure to the veins and can weaken the vessels. So, if you’re looking to prevent varicose veins, the key is to ensure the blood flow in the legs is healthy and uncompromised.

Of course, this won’t 100% guarantee that you won’t develop the condition as age and genetics can also play a role in its development.

Overall, varicose veins don’t just look unattractive, they can lead to more serious health problems if they aren’t treated early enough.

Whatever the cause, it’s important you seek treatment as soon as possible. The earlier you get them treated, the simpler and easier the treatment will be.

Did you know for example, that there are many non-surgical varicose vein treatments available these days? Book a consultation with the Cornwall Vein Clinic today to learn more.

3 Unusual Places Varicose Veins Can Develop

VeinsVaricose veins are most commonly found in the lower legs, but did you know they can spring up in more unusual areas?

Developing varicose veins anywhere on the body can be distressing. The green and blue veins don’t just look unsightly – they can also be painful or uncomfortable too. Below you’ll discover 3 unusual places varicose veins can develop.

1. The vagina/vulva

Perhaps the most surprising area varicose veins can appear is around the vagina and vulva area. They most commonly develop during pregnancy and are caused by ovarian or pelvic vein reflux. They can cause a lot of discomfort, as well as lead to other issues such as IBS and stress incontinence.

It is often said there isn’t a suitable treatment available to treat vaginal varicose veins, but coil embolization has been proven to work on some patients.

2. Hands and arms

While it is rare, varicose veins can develop in the hands and arms, especially in older individuals and those who work out a lot. They pose more of a cosmetic issue than a medical one and are pretty harmless compared to varicose veins found on other parts of the body.

Fillers tend to be the most common treatment, though ultrasound guided phlebectomy can also prove successful.

3. Around the eyes

Varicose veins around the eyes can be particularly distressing as they are much more noticeable than on other parts of the body. They can cause a lot of embarrassment and even give the face a disfigured appearance. Treatment will depend upon individual circumstances.

A laser may be used to try and close the veins, but some patients may require plastic surgical procedures to remove them.

These are just 3 surprising places varicose veins can crop up. If you’re concerned about varicose veins on any part of your body, contact us today to book a consultation. It’s also important to visit your GP to have the problem properly diagnosed.