Long before June and Father’s Day a son, a daughter or grandchild may comment on those “ funny wormy bulging’ or discoloration on dad or grandfather’s legs.   These comments don’t necessarily result in father’s concern, embarrassment nor do the comments incite a visit to a physician.  Conversely, on Mother’s Day, a similar comment about mother’s legs and ‘mom’ quickly begins her search for treatment.  Why is this so? Venous disease strikes both men and women.  Women are much more likely to seek treatment for their disorder.  This can pose a problem for men who wait until symptoms are more severe and treatment is more challenging, before heading to the doctor’s office.  However, like women, the sooner men seek treatment for their venous disease, the more positive their outcome will be. In the past venous disease was traditionally thought of as a “female” problem.  Men often delay talking to a physician until they have significant symptoms, which might include pain, itching, dry skin, swelling and the appearance of venous ulcers.  These symptoms can be challenging to treat, and may require more invasive procedures and longer recovery times. Statistics vary, but more recent estimates reveal that nearly one half the U.S population suffer some type of venous disease over a lifetime.  Of that number, at least 60% are women and 40% – 50% will be men.  In addition, other than female hormonal fluctuations, both men and women share the same risk factors:

  • Heredity
  • Occupations (Standing/Sitting, long periods)
  • Obesity
  • Trauma

While men may experience venous conditions almost as frequently, women are much more likely to seek treatment.  Women with attention to leg shaving and clothing apparel may become aware early of their signs and symptoms of venous disease.  Men wear pants and have more leg hair.   If bulging veins or discoloration occur in men, there may be no “constant” reminder, or even simple reminders from their family members.  With men, an underlying venous disorder may be totally ignored.  Men may then be left more vulnerable to the possibility of advanced venous conditions at some point in their lives. So, this June, consider this conversation….”Hey Dad’ I’m not going to let Father’s Day pass without showing how I care about your health.”  Reach out and contact us to schedule a priority evaluation to keep that special man in your life healthy.