Final answer:
Prolonged sitting or standing can lead to complications such as edema and varicose veins, which are characterized by swelling of the feet and legs, and twisted, enlarged veins, respectively. These can be managed with various methods, including elevation of the legs, usage of support hose, and surgery in severe cases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Complications from prolonged sitting or standing, which prevent adequate blood circulation in the feet and legs, can result in conditions such as edema and varicose veins. Edema is swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body's tissues, often exacerbated by certain medications like vasodilators and calcium channel blockers. Moreover, varicose veins, which are twisted and enlarged veins, may develop due to defective valves in the veins, leading to blood pooling and vein distension. These conditions can be managed by using support hose, elevating the legs, or in severe cases, through laser surgery or conventional surgical removal of the affected veins. Furthermore, prolonged high blood glucose levels can also lead to serious vascular and neural complications, including an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg, and can be illustrated by Figure 17.8.1.