Can Excessive Weightlifting Cause Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are generally caused by increased blood pressure in the veins. The veins become enlarged, and blood clots start to develop. Weightlifting has a similar effect on the veins as it puts pressure on the veins resulting in a temporary collection of blood in the veins.

With 23% of Americans suffering from varicose veins, some people believe that weightlifting can cause varicose veins. However, is there actually a connection between the two? Let’s find out.

How Can Weightlifting Affect and Cause Varicose Veins?

To understand the relation between weightlifting and varicose veins, you need to know how weightlifting affects your blood circulation.

When you lift heavy weights for a long time, you put a strain on large abdominal veins called Vena Cava which affects its function to pump blood back to the heart, restricting the blood flow in the lower body and leg veins. You also exert too much pressure on your venous system, which may weaken the valve in the long run. This may result in the accumulation of excess blood in the veins causing the vein to swell and turn into a varicose vein.

However, you should not confuse varicose veins with bulging veins which are temporary plumping of veins after a heavy weightlifting session. Nevertheless, weightlifting can cause varicose veins only in people who are obese or have a family history of varicose veins.

In such cases, you can follow certain tips that will reduce the risk of damaging your veins during weightlifting.

Effective Tips That Will Reduce the Risk of Vein Damage from Weightlifting

You could be prone to varicose veins from weight lifting, but these tips can help you reduce the risk of vein damage.

• Don’t lift weights that are too heavy for you; work out with moderate weights. If you want to increase your weight load, do it gradually.
• Wear compression stockings while running; this will help in blood circulation.
• Warm up and prep your body before working out. This would help your body adjust to the workout.
• Hydrate well and eat a nutritious diet that is low in fat.

If you are already suffering from varicose veins and are experiencing pain during exercises, follow the tips given below.

Prevention Tips to Reduce Pain During Exercise for Varicose Veins

Pain in varicose veins from weight lifting can be reduced if you follow these tips.

• Wear compression stockings regularly
• Raise your legs to enhance blood flow
• Give time to your body to rest.
• Maintain a healthy weight

Varicose veins are not a life-threatening disease; they can be controlled and reduced with timely care and medical assistance.

Treatment Options for Varicose Veins at North Atlanta Vascular Clinic and Vein Center

Our providers at North Atlanta Vascular Clinic and Vein Center diagnose and treat a wide variety of venous diseases, including varicose veins. Our providers will assess your symptoms and medical history and perform physical examinations to determine a diagnosis and treatment options. They may perform an X-ray or venous ultrasound imaging test if needed.

Get Rid of Varicose Veins at North Atlanta Vascular Clinic Today!

North Atlanta Vascular Clinic has been providing vascular services for more than a decade. Located in four convenient locations in Suwanee, Alpharetta, Lawrenceville, and Cumming, the clinic provides treatment for an array of vascular and venous disorders.

If you are suffering from varicose veins and you are looking for treatment options, contact us or schedule an appointment today!