Stopping This Habit at The Office is Good For Your Health

Sitting for long periods of time at work is one of several factors that can increase your risk of varicose veins and spider veins. Researchers are increasingly concerned that the presence of varicose veins may be associated with an increased risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), Peripheral Artery Design (PAD) or Pulmonary Embolism (PE). Reduce your risk by following our wellness guidelines for increasing your exercise and activity levels during the work day for a healthier new you.

Should you be concerned about the presence of varicose veins or spider veins in your legs?

Varicose veins are noticeably enlarged veins with a twisted, bulging appearance and a distinguishable color, usually red or blue (but sometimes flesh-colored as well). Their smaller cousin, spider veins, are closer to the surface of the skin and typically look like spider webs or tree branches.

Age is a major contributing risk factor. It's estimated that more than 50% of those aged 50 or older are showing signs of varicose or spider veins.

Our veins, which return blood to the heart, tend to lose effectiveness as we age. The little valves inside the veins can degrade, allowing blood to reverse course and leak back into the veins to collect there, creating the characteristic visible color and bulging of varicose veins. Spider veins, on the other hand, are due to blood not flowing properly; as blood gets blocked from moving, these veins become highly visible.

ARE VARICOSE VEINS AND SPIDER VEINS A SIGN OF HEALTH PROBLEMS?

The relationship between varicose veins and spider veins and major health problems is not completely clear.

However, a very recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association looked at the historical medical records of 425,000 patients in Taiwan. The study found that there was a high correlation between those patients who had varicose veins and those who experienced deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A similar, but less significant relationship was found between varicose veins and pulmonary embolism (PE), and peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Given the potential seriousness of these cardiovascular problems, you should see a doctor about your varicose veins if you encounter any of the following issues:

• A varicose vein begins to bleed.

• A varicose vein becomes swollen and warm to the touch.

• The color of the varicose vein changes to red.

• You experience rashes, color changes, or thickening near the ankles.

HOW CAN YOU PREVENT CARDIOVASCULAR PROBLEMS, SUCH AS VARICOSE VEINS?

As we mentioned before, age is a contributing factor for cardiovascular problems, such as varicose veins. Genetics can also play a role. We can't stop the aging process or change our genes (at least not yet). But we can address some of the other contributing factors.

• Minimize Sun Exposure: if you're fair skinned, use sunscreen or avoid the sun to prevent spider veins, especially on the face.

• Pregnancy and Hormonal Changes: Pregnant women sometimes experience temporary varicose veins during their pregnancy. Women on HRT may experience an increased incidence of varicose or spider veins.

• Control Your Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can decrease the pressure on your veins.

• Eat a Low Sodium, High Fiber Diet: Reducing salt can reduce swelling while high-fiber foods help reduce constipation, both of which are associated with varicose veins.

• Avoid Sedentary Lifestyle at Work or at Home: Avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time. Using a Formaspace Sit-to-Stand desk can make this easy to accomplish during the day. Be sure to get up and walk at least every 30 minutes. Avoid crossing legs for extended periods of time, which can restrict blood flow. Choose low shoes over wearing high-heels to increase the movement of blood through calf muscles.

START AN EXERCISE PROGRAM TO IMPROVE YOUR CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH

Whether you are younger or older, in good health, or are experiencing an ongoing health issue or disability, regular exercise and physical activity will help improve your long-term cardiovascular health.

Daily exercise and physical activity can also reduce the risk of developing serious health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes.

Even If you do have a chronic health condition, such as arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, balance problems or difficulty walking, you can benefit from a personalized exercise program tailored to your needs.

STEPS TO TAKE BEFORE STARTING AN EXERCISE PROGRAM

If you have not been physically active for some time, you should schedule a physical and a consultation with your physician prior to beginning an exercise program to identify any special concerns or risks.

Having a physical can help identify any undetected health issues, which may arise during vigorous exercise as well as establish a current health baseline for evaluating your overall health progress.

Depending on your personal health history, a consultation may include any or all of the following:

• identification of specific exercise goals that are appropriate for your present physical condition
• recommendations concerning any of your personal health concerns (such as high blood pressure or medications you are currently taking)
• ways for diabetics to manage their blood sugar when exercising
• advice on exercise during periods of rehabilitation or recovery from surgery or other major health events (such as a heart attack)
• safety tips to prevent re-occurrence of past injuries
• evaluation of bone density, especially for women over 65 who are at special risk for osteoporosis
• review of when to call 911 emergency services if you experience any unexplained symptoms during vigorous exercise (e.g., chest pain or pressure, pain in your joints, dizziness, or excessive shortness of breath)

Formaspace advances the spirit of discovery and creation through the design and manufacture of custom business furniture. Our furniture marries form to function with flexible solutions for clients in the laboratory, industrial, and office environments.

Formaspace serves over 80% of the Fortune 500, as well as universities, governments, small businesses, and individuals.

Formaspace
1100 E. Howard Lane, Suite 400 Austin, TX 78753
800.251.1505

This release was published on openPR.