Sponsored
Vein health might not be as glamorous (or Instagram-able) as skin health or hair health, but it’s just as important. In fact, it plays an essential role in maintaining overall health and quality of life. To better understand vein health and how to be proactive, we turned to local experts Brian Thoma MD and Vicki Blackwell PA-C from Restore Vein & Wellness in Hoover and asked five important questions. Read on for their answers.
1. Am I at risk for venous disease?
Several risk factors of venous disease include age, extended sitting or standing and genetics. But did you know women have a greater risk of developing venous disease? Up to 40% of women are at risk, compared to 17% of men.
“Increased prevalence in women arises from pregnancies, particularly multiple pregnancies, secondary to increased pressure inside the veins during pregnancy.”
Brian Thoma MD & Vicki Blackwell PA-C, Restore Vein & Wellness
As a woman, I have to say that’s a bit of a bummer. The bright side, though, is that knowing important info like this will give us females more reason to be proactive and take precautions.
Learn more about the importance of vein wellness + treatment options—contact Restore Vein and Wellness today.
2. What prevention tips should I know?
The answer is circulation to your legs through—you guessed it—exercise. We hear all the time how important it is to be active, and preventing venous disease is just another reason to get moving.
“During physical activity, muscle contraction in the legs will serve to empty the veins of blood and help return the blood to the heart. This decreases the pressure inside the vein walls and will reduce the stress on the valves within the veins.”
Brian Thoma MD & Vicki Blackwell PA-C, Restore Vein & Wellness
Along with having an active lifestyle with four to five days a week of exercise, Thoma and Blackwell also suggest these tips:
- Drink plenty of water, maintain a healthy diet and avoid smoking.
- Get regular cardiovascular exercise to maintain ideal body weight.
- Wear compression socks to reduce swelling and encourage good blood flow.
3. What physical activities are best for vein health?
From walking and hiking to aerobics and strength training, the list of ways to be active is endless. But we had to ask, which physical activities are best for vein health? Thoma and Blackwell gave us these great examples:
- Biking
- Elliptical machines
- Swimming
- Walking
Do you notice what these examples have in common? Yep, they all focus on putting your legs in motion.
There are tons of amazing spots around the Greater Birmingham Area where you can be active. Here are some local hiking and walking trails to explore.
4. What if problems arise?
What if you’ve taken all of the suggested precautions and still notice problems? The team at Restore Vein and Wellness suggests seeking medical attention as soon as possible. Remember, early detection is key to vein health.
“If you have symptoms of leg pain, heaviness, or swelling, or you have visible findings of varicose/bulging veins, dry/itching skin, a rash on the lower legs, or develop wounds or ulcers of the legs, you need to seek medical attention.”
Brian Thoma MD & Vicki Blackwell PA-C, Restore Vein & Wellness
5. How do I book an appointment?
Booking an appointment with Restore Vein & Wellness is quick and easy. Follow these steps:
- Request an appointment online or call 205.208.0324.
- Fill out new-patient forms provided during your scheduled appointment.
- You’ll have a physical and ultrasound and receive your results and treatment options the same day.
Find out more about vein wellness and treatment options—visit Restore Vein and Wellness’ website + follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Sponsored by:
