Athletes and Varicose Veins: Are You at Increased Risk?
Most people think of athletes as immune to common health problems. But if Michael Phelps can have asthma and Billie Jean King can have Type 2 diabetes, then athletes can have varicose veins, as well. Because of the genetic component, if varicose veins are in an athlete’s family, there is a good chance that they will have them, too–no matter what shape they are in physically. Also, certain activities put some athletes at higher risk of having varicose veins. We will discuss these as well as things you can do to lessen your symptoms if varicose veins are an issue for you as well.
Any activity that puts increased pressure on your veins can potentially cause varicose veins. These include weightlifting, horseback riding, and backpacking. This does not mean that no one should engage in these activities. However, you should be careful of added intensity and take plenty of breaks to rest between. The most strenuous, and therefore risky, activities are those involving a Valsalva maneuver. This is when you hold your breath and bear down while lifting something very heavy. As you can imagine, the increased pressure in the leg veins that results elevates the risk of varicose veins.
If you already have varicose veins, certain types of exercise can help to alleviate them. For instance, running helps to flex the muscles in your legs that keep the blood flowing in your veins and back to your heart. Also, swimming, yoga, and walking are excellent ways to stay active and improve your vein health.
On the other hand, if you find that your ankles swell after any type of activity, be sure to rest and put your feet up. That way, your blood will return to your heart and not pool in your veins.
