Having treated patients as young as 15 years old, I know firsthand that vein conditions in the legs are not limited to older adults and “Grandmas.” I was 15 years old when I first noticed a bulging vein in my own calf. For me, my condition worsened into college and graduate school when I finally received treatment and...for the first time...freedom from leg pain. The fact is vein conditions affect more than 80 million Americans, and that includes young adults and teens. While no one expects to develop a vein condition at such a young age, it’s actually more common than you may think.
Youth and young adults experience the same leg symptoms as older patients do: evening fatigue, lack of stamina, uncomfortable or even painful legs, and sometimes bulging varicose veins. However, where many older adults write it off as part of “getting older,” youth can’t use the same excuse. There are very few lifestyle indicators in children and young adults as to the likelihood of developing a vein condition. I see all kinds. They may be on their feet all day or sit through 8 hours of classes with little to no exercise. They may be overweight but usually, they are active and healthy. In fact, some of the youngest patients are student-athletes whose legs hurt at the end of the day, and their condition affects their athletic performance. For most patients, the source of the vein condition is genetics - an older family member has the same problem.
Other frequent groups that I see in my clinic are college students and young adults in their twenties. These students come back to their dorm or apartment in the evening and want to do nothing but sit and elevate their legs. They decline opportunities to go out with friends. They too feel wiped out and exhausted and their legs may be swollen and uncomfortable. Not realizing that a vein condition is an underlying culprit...or that it can be treated...many young adults suffer needlessly.
Whatever your age, whatever your lifestyle...a vein condition may be at the root of fatigue or leg symptoms. If you think you may have a vein condition, start with our easy online quiz to find out. If you suspect a vein condition, contact us to schedule a free screening. You’re too young, at any age, to suffer needlessly when help is available.
