9 Tips to Reduce Your Risk of Varicose Veins

If you are in the 35% of Americans who have varicose veins, you’re probably not happy about it. Not only are these enlarged, twisted veins aesthetically unappealing, they are also likely causing you discomfort and pain. 

Varicose and spider veins (a mild variation of varicose veins) occur most commonly in your legs due to the increased pressure your lower body has to endure as you stand and walk throughout the day.

These veins develop into a problem because of weak or damaged valves in your veins. As muscle contractions in your legs pump blood through your veins to your heart, the blood passes through tiny valves in the veins, which then close to prevent the blood from flowing backward. 

If the valves become damaged so they can’t stay closed, blood can start pooling in your veins, causing them to stretch and twist. 

At Vascular and Interventional Specialists in Miami, Florida, our team can treat your varicose veins, but we would rather you didn’t develop them to begin with. Here are nine tips to help reduce your risk.

Maintain a healthy weight

Extra weight will add additional pressure to your legs, which increases the amount of work your veins have to do to pump your blood upward. Lose weight to ease the pressure on your lower body.

Stay active

One way to lose weight is to exercise regularly. Not only will you lose weight, you’ll also improve your blood circulation (which makes your veins more healthy) and lower your blood pressure.

Change your position frequently

Don’t sit or stand in the same position for a long period of time. If your calf muscles stay inactive, your vein walls will become weaker. Switch your position throughout the day, including going for short walks periodically.

Watch your wardrobe

Clothes that fit tightly around your waist or legs can interfere with efficient blood flow, so opt for something a little looser. Switching out high heels for flats can make a difference as well.

Stop smoking

Not only is smoking bad for your veins (it weakens your circulatory system), it can cause a host of other health issues.

Eat a healthy diet

Make an effort to eat healthy foods rather than the sugary and greasy food that’s all too easy to scarf down. You’ll lose weight and provide the nutritional fortitude to keep up with your body’s demands.

Elevate your legs

If you raise your legs above the level of your heart while you’re sitting or sleeping, you’ll ease the pressure on your veins and enhance your circulation.

Avoid prolonged use of birth control

Estrogen can change the function of valves in peripheral veins, so this is a risk of using hormonal birth control for a long period of time. Ask your doctor for a non-hormonal method of birth control.

Wear compression hose

If you are beginning to notice signs of varicose veins, compression hose are designed to assist the one-way movement of blood upward through your veins.

If you’re concerned about varicose veins, we’re happy to help plan the best course of treatment for you. Just call our office or request an appointment online today, and you’ll be on your way to a life free from varicose veins!