Some Jobs May Pose Higher Risks of Chronic Venous Insufficiency
WATERBURY, Conn. – Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) is raising awareness about how jobs that require either sitting or standing for long periods of time without moving contribute to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a condition where blood struggles to flow back to the heart. Prolonged immobility can lead to issues ranging from spider veins to life-threatening deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Since March is DVT Awareness Month, experts hope to educate the public about the condition, which can be life-threatening if a clot breaks loose and lodges in a person’s lungs.
“The muscles in our calves act as pumps pushing blood up toward the heart,” said Dr. Thomas Alosco, lead physician at CVR’s Waterbury, Conn. vein clinic location. “Our bodies need to keep moving to maintain healthy circulation. We hope employers will remember to build in breaks for workers to move around.”
Some jobs that can put people at risk of vein complications incloude construction and factory work (repetitive tasks that require standing in place), healthcare (standing during extended shifts), retail and hospitality (cashiers, sales, and restaurant employees working on their feet), hairdressing and barbering (standing at a work station for most of the day), office work (sitting at a desk for long periods), and transportation (spending long durations in cramped spaces).
“Most people are not in a position to change their careers,” Alosco said. “But there are things we can all do to minimize risks and address any damage caused by compromised circulation.”
Some preventive tips and treatment options include taking walking breaks, elevating legs, wearing compression socks, and staying hydrated.
Consult a board-certified doctor to address vein issues with outpatient minimally invasive treatments such as vein closure, ablation, or phlebectomy.