Jobs that Increase Your Risk for Varicose Veins

Jobs that Increase Your Risk for Varicose Veins

You may be working at a job that could be contributing to your vein problems. Unfortunately, there are many jobs out there that can contribute to a venous insufficiency. Why is this so? Well, many jobs require prolonged sitting or standing, which in turn leads to the development of varicose veins. Below, we’ve listed the careers that can contribute to vein issues, but don’t worry, there are ways to counteract the negative impacts that these jobs have on your legs. A person shouldn’t have to leave their job because they’re afraid of getting varicose veins!

1. Office Jobs – Any job where you’re sitting for at least 8 hours a day can lead to circulatory issues. Such jobs include: receptionists, office assistants, office managers, graphic designers, web developers, etc. Humans weren’t meant to be sedentary and sit all day. When a person sits for extended periods, the muscles in the legs that are used to pump blood aren’t used much and the blood could flow backwards and potentially pool in leg veins, which causes the development of varicose veins.
2. Medical professions (nurses, doctors, etc…) –  Doctors, nurses, and other medical works spend a lot of time on their feet during their long shifts. This prolonged standing creates a greater risk for circulatory problems
3. Cashiers/Front Desk Workers – Whether you’re a cashier at the supermarket or the front desk attendant at a hotel, you spend a lot of time on your feet. Often, people in these positions end up with achy legs and backs. Standing in one place for a long time can take its toll on the legs and the veins within.
4. Hairstylists – Hairstylists rarely get to sit down. Client after client, they are on their feet, putting pressure on the veins.
5. Truck Drivers –  Truck drivers spend endless hours sitting down without moving. Many drivers have to drive cross country, and don’t get the chance to stretch their legs often.

Other professions that can lead to vein issues: bartenders, teachers, factory workers, and massage therapists.

As you can see a large percentage of careers out there can lead to veins problems; however, this doesn’t mean a person should avoid taking one of the jobs. There are things you can to to keep vein issues at bay. Here’s a few ways to prevent the development of varicose veins while working one of these jobs:

• Wear compression stockings
• Schedule breaks to sit, walk, or stretch out your legs (depending on what you need)
• Wear comfortable, supportive shoes
• Exercise outside of work hours to promote healthy blood flow and muscle usage in the body.

If you have one of the following jobs and are concerned about developing varicose veins, or think you may have them, it’s best to seek out a vein specialist. Dr. Zuzga of West Florida Vein Center in the Tampa area can meet with you to discuss your concerns, diagnose any current problems, and suggest treatments if necessary. To schedule an appointment, call Dr. Zuzga’s office at 727-712-3233 or click here.