Diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body cannot produce the proper amount of insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar. Some glucose is necessary to provide energy throughout the body. But high or low blood sugar levels can severely impact the function of many organs. And over time, irregular blood sugar levels may lead to damage within the blood vessels themselves.
If you want to promote healthy veins, you will need to work with your doctor to manage diabetes. Knowing how diabetes can affect the health of the vascular system can encourage you to seek necessary medical care. So read on to learn more about the connection between diabetes and vascular diseases like varicose veins.
Can Diabetes Cause Vein Damage?
Patients with diabetes can carry too much glucose within their blood. These excess molecules can damage the blood vessels over time. When weakened, the veins face a greater risk of inflammation and infection, putting them in danger of certain diseases.
Valves within the blood vessels could suffer damage and malfunction. This will allow for the possibility of backflow or pooling in the veins. When blood accumulates in one spot of the veins, you can see the problem as bulging and discolored veins sticking out from the skin. The condition is known as varicose veins.
Varicose veins are largely a cosmetic problem. They can cause discomfort in their appearance rather than posing a medical threat to the individual. But sometimes, varicose veins will put pressure on the circulatory system. This can heighten the risk of more serious problems, including vascular disease or blood clots.
What Should I Do to Manage Vein Disease Risk Factors?
You can reduce your risk of varicose veins and other vascular problems when you manage other related health conditions. Diabetes is a known risk factor for varicose veins. So you should work with your doctor to take care of this chronic disease if you want to promote healthy veins.
This will include monitoring your blood sugar and taking prescribed medications as your doctor recommends. You will also want to eat a balanced and nutritious diet that avoids triggers for diabetic problems as well as sodium and cholesterol. With these dietary tips in mind, you can boost your circulation and further lower the chances of developing varicose veins.
Regular exercise, especially cardio that gets the legs moving, can also encourage healthy blood flow, reducing the risk of vein diseases. Try to complete at least 30 minutes of physical activity almost every day. Appropriate diet and exercise will also help you stay at a healthy weight, addressing obesity, another risk factor for vein disease.
If you smoke, you should stop this habit as soon as possible. Tobacco usage will heighten the risk of complications in your veins and with diabetes. Visit your doctor or vein specialist to learn more preventive advice that can ensure your veins and the rest of your body remain healthy.