Cardiff women warned menopause may increase risk of varicose veins

1 day ago
2 min read

Cardiff women going through the menopause could be at a greater risk of developing

varicose veins, warn experts from a clinic in the city.

Up to 40% of women over 50 suffer from varicose veins and hormonal changes during menopause may be partly to blame.

Huw Davies, Consultant Vascular Surgeon at Premier Veins at Oaktree House, Oaktree Court, Cardiff Gate Business Park, said: “There’s already so much scaremongering surrounding the menopause and some of the main side effects people talk about and are aware of are hot flushes and mood swings, but the hormonal changes that come along with the menopause can also increase the risk of varicose Veins.

“We want women to view this as an opportunity for self-care and education, so they can take proactive steps to feel comfortable and healthy and even prevent issues before they start.

Some simple tips that women can follow to help, include:

● Keep moving - regular movement helps blood circulate properly through the legs. Activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, or gentle yoga can support healthy blood flow and reduce pressure on the veins.

● Avoid sitting or standing for long periods - staying in one position for too long can cause blood to pool in the legs. If you work at a desk or stand for extended periods, try to take short movement breaks every 30 - 60 minutes.

● Elevate your legs - raising your legs slightly above heart level for short periods can help blood flow back toward the heart and reduce pressure in the veins.

● Wear supportive compression stockings - they can improve circulation by gently supporting the veins in the legs, particularly for people who spend long periods on their feet.”

Veins contain tiny, one-way valves that open to allow blood to flow towards the heart. When vein walls lose their elasticity, these valves weaken causing blood to flow backwards.

Blood then collects in the veins, increasing pressure, which causes them to swell and enlarge. Symptoms of varicose veins include pain, itching or throbbing over a prominent vein, achy, heavy and restless legs, muscle cramps, swollen ankles and feet and dry skin.

Huw added: “Women’s health has historically been overlooked, with symptoms often

minimised or normalised, and it’s no different when it comes to venous health. Modern

treatments, including Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) and Ultrasound-Guided Foam

Sclerotherapy (UGFS) are minimally invasive and do not require hospital stays, in fact patients are up and about and back to their normal routine within a couple of hours.

“Early intervention prevents complications such as leg ulcers, chronic pain, and reduced

mobility. It’s vital we shift the perception from cosmetic to clinical and ensure women know help is available.”

Premier Veins is dedicated to transforming vein health and restoring confidence. Its expert team, with a strong foundation in the NHS and research, established Premier Veins in 2012 to deliver a superior level of personalised attention.

Its experienced consultant vascular specialists offer advanced, minimally invasive treatments that can help people regain confidence in their appearance.

The company has received the Best for Varicose Vein Treatments - UK award by Global 100 for four consecutive years.

For more information on Premier Veins and its award-winning services, or to book a

consultation, please visit www.premierveins.uk.