Varicose Veins Bothering You? 4 Steps To Keep Them Under Control
If you have varicose veins, you should know that there wasn't anything you could have done to prevent them. Varicose veins are a natural occurrence. However, once you have them, there are some things you can do to keep them from getting worse. Varicose veins are unsightly, and if left alone they can cause leg swelling and pain. If you have varicose veins, here are some steps you can take to slow the progression.
Move Around
Varicose veins develop when the blood that flows up to your heart gets delayed and collects in your legs. Most varicose veins show up around your feet and ankles. You can help keep them from getting worse by keeping your blood flowing in your legs. Try to avoid sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time. If you do have to sit for extended periods, try moving your feet and legs while you're sitting. It's also important that you avoid crossing your legs while you're sitting. Crossing your legs can cut off the circulation to your feet and ankles, which can make your varicose veins worse.
Control Your Weight
If you're overweight, you should try to shed some of the excess pounds. Being overweight can interfere with your circulation, which can cause your varicose veins to expand. Shedding those excess pounds will improve your circulation, allowing the blood to flow through your veins properly.
Avoid Tight-Fitting Clothes
If you have varicose veins, you should avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes. It's particularly important that you avoid clothing that is tight around the waist, upper thighs or ankles. Tight-fitting clothes can decrease the blood flow through your body and cut off circulation to your legs, which can cause your varicose veins to swell.
See Your Doctor
If you can see varicose veins in your legs, ankles or feet, you should speak with your doctor, especially if you're experiencing pain or swelling in your feet. There are treatments available for varicose veins. Some of those treatments include:
- Sclerotherapy – closes off the affected veins
- Laser treatment – closes off the affected veins
- Phlebectomy – removes the affected veins
- Ligation – ties off and removes affected veins
If you have varicose veins, there are things you can do to keep them from getting worse. Use the tips provided above to keep your varicose veins under control. If you develop pain or swelling in your feet, be sure to speak to your doctor or a care provider like The Sheen Vein Institute.
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