Under the expert guidance of our Board Certified Vascular Surgeon, Dr. Mark Zuzga, our team of Vein Specialists & Vascular Experts are committed to delivering top-tier outpatient vascular & vein evaluation and treatment throughout the greater Tampa & West Florida surrounding areas. Should you find yourself dealing with leg pain, swelling, ulcers, discoloration, or the appearance of spider and varicose veins, we invite you to request a screening todaySmoking Can Amplify Vein Disease, Varicose Veins and Spider Veins
Over the last couple of decades, science has brought to light the truth about smoking. That it is carcinogenic (can cause cancer) and do damage to the body overall. It may harm your lungs, your oral health, your heart, make you appear older than you are, and even contribute to vein disease.
When the circulatory system is damaged it may lead to venous insufficiency which is what causes varicose and spider veins. Spider and varicose veins usually cause discomfort on top of cosmetic embarrassment but the real damage is the potential for life-threatening issues.
There is no way to know the full extent of the damage done unless you see a Vein Specialist. If you are having visual signs you can be assured there is more going on beneath the surface.
One of the serious complications that can stem from vein disease is DVT (deep vein thrombosis) a condition that happens when blood cell clots deep in the veins.
Deep vein thrombosis can lead to a highly dangerous condition known as a pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolisms occur when a blood clot breaks off and moves through the bloodstream to end up lodged in the lungs. In this location, a clot can prevent blood flow resulting in death.
Smokers are 50% more likely to develop DVT than are non-smokers.
The toxic chemicals in today’s cigarettes are incredibly harsh on the circulatory system. Nicotine causes narrowing and hardening of the arteries, increasing the risk for the formation of blood clots. Certain chemical compounds thicken the blood and reduce oxygenation. This combination is incredibly dangerous.
The best solution for preventing smoking-related vein problems is to never start smoking in the first place. If you already smoke the best advice is to stop smoking as soon as you can.
Though it has been portrayed as such in many TV ads, the damage done is not completely reversible. Quitting can, however, greatly reduce the risks of cigarette-related venous disease. It also helps to reduce the risks of heart disease and cancer. The willful choice to keep smoking knowing this and remaining a lifetime smoker almost guarantees a vascular issue down the road.
The good news is, many vein conditions are now easily treatable with minimally invasive techniques and procedures, with many patients reporting little to no pain as well as almost immediate relief of their symptoms.
Contact our staff today to learn about the many options available to you and to schedule an appointment at our state of the art Tampa vein center. The West Florida Vein Center looks forward to serving you. www.westfloridaveincenter.com (727) 712-3233.