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Prevent Varicose Veins
Varicose veins — gnarled, dilated blood vessels. They are generally caused by pressure in the vein that, over time, weakens the vessel walls. varicose veins and spider veins (their smaller, capillary-based cousins) are merely unsightly nuisances, but they can also make walking and standing extremely painful, and in extreme cases, they can cause skin ulcers.
Staying Fit: Exercise RegularlyWalking and jogging improve circulation in the legs, and proper circulation helps ward off the development and worsening of varicose veins. Exercise also reduces overall high blood pressure and strengthens your entire circulatory system.
Standing in one place for a long time increases venous pressure in the legs and feet. Over time, this pressure weakens the blood vessel walls. Since prolonged standing is almost unavoidable in some jobs, mitigate the harm by shifting your position as frequently as possible, and try to walk around at least every 30 minutes.
Avoid Prolonged Standing
Sit Properly
Sit up straight and don’t cross your legs. Good posture improves circulation, while crossed legs restrict blood flow to and from the legs
Excess weight will put undue pressure on your legs and circulatory system. Reducing weight will reduce the risks of varicose veins in many instances.
Maintain Healthy Weight
Eat Healthy FoodsDevelop healthy eating habits and avoid foods with high calorie and low nutrition content. As well, exercise regularly. Through healthier eating and regular movement, you’ll help to reduce your varicose vein risk.
Quit SmokingSmoking contributes to myriad health problems, but if you need one more reason, keep in mind that the high blood pressure associated with smoking also helps cause varicose veins.
Avoid taking high-estrogen birth control pills
Long-term use of high-estrogen birth control pills has been shown to increase the risk of varicose veins by altering circulatory valve function
Put your feet up for a whileEspecially if you have to stand up for long periods, take time to relax your legs and improve circulation by elevating your legs and feet for several minutes throughout the day or when you finish your shift
Redesign Your Wardrobe Improve circulation to your lower body by avoiding tight-fitting clothes on your legs and around your waist. Prefer softer, less clinging clothing, such as yoga pants and track pants.
Knock Out Heels Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes instead of high heels, and make sure your shoes are properly fitted.
Wear compression hose If you’re developing varicose veins, try regularly using compression hose (support hose). These can be purchased at medical supply stores or pharmacies and come in a variety of different compressions.
