With the sedentary lifestyle caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, many women are experiencing tired and swollen legs. Night cramps, soreness, tingling, and restlessness, especially at night, are common symptoms of a possible hereditary or lifestyle-related vascular disorder. A visit to a vascular surgeon can provide proper diagnosis and treatment.
In this article, an angiologist and vascular surgeon shed light on this issue.
Symptoms to Watch Out For:
- Swelling of the legs, especially around the ankles, can be an inherited problem, even in young women.
- Hot weather, overweight, sedentary lifestyle, and tight clothing can worsen the condition of the legs.
A specialist should be consulted if legs become painful, swollen, and tired, and frequent nighttime cramps occur. Family history and habits will be studied during the visit, and blood circulation will be assessed with echocolorDoppler.
Rest Is Not Always the Solution
Alteration in the venous blood return mechanism can cause venous stasis, or blood stagnation in the veins due to factors such as family history, obesity, age, and sedentary lifestyle.
Venous insufficiency, i.e., the inability of blood to return effectively and functionally to the heart, can cause swelling, pain, and tingling in the lower limbs.
Physical activity, such as walking, can help reactivate venous circulation and prevent fluid stagnation in the legs. Elastic (elastocompressive) stockings can also reduce blood stagnation and swelling.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle with a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, vitamins, and minerals can help reduce fluid stagnation.
In summary, it is essential to recognize the symptoms of tired and swollen legs and consult a specialist if necessary. Taking preventive measures such as physical activity, wearing elastic stockings, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can alleviate the discomfort caused by swollen legs and ankles.
